Astrophytum capricorne aka Bishop's Cap
Taxonomy
Common names
Bishop's Cap, Bishop's Hat, Goat's HornHow to care for Bishop's Cap
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Bishop's Cap, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Bishop's Cap does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
The Bishop's Cap is very susceptible to soil that is too wet, so it's essential to choose a potting soil that drains well and does not retain excessive moisture. A soil mix that includes plenty of perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can easily create this type of soil by adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store.
Lighting
Bishop's Cap requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Bishop's Hat is always in the right place to thrive.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Humidity
Bishop's Cap prefers dry environments, but by misting the plant or providing extra humidity, water will linger on the leaves and create an ideal environment for fungi that could be harmful.
Fertilizer
The Bishop's Cap is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.
Region of origin
Bishop's Cap’s native range is North America.
More info:
Wikipedia