Astrophytum asterias 'V-Type'
Astrophytum asterias 'V-Type is a selected cultivar of the popular star cactus Astrophytum asterias, distinguished by the way its white flecking is organised into bold, V-shaped (arrow-like) chevron markings that point along each rib, rather than being scattered evenly across the body as in a typical plant. The name is used among Astrophytum growers and enthusiasts (the species is known in Japan as Kabuto).
Description
The plant shares the low, flattened, spineless disc-shaped body of the parent species, usually divided into eight neat ribs radiating from a woolly central crown. What sets 'V-Type' apart is the arrangement of the characteristic white trichome flecks: instead of dusting the epidermis at random, they gather into crisp chevron or arrowhead bands that follow the angle of each rib, giving the whole body a bold, geometric star pattern. Well-selected individuals show clean, high-contrast markings against a dark green to grey-green skin, and the effect is strongest when the plant is grown hard in bright light. As with all asterias, the areoles carry tufts of felty wool rather than spines, and mature plants produce yellow, red-throated flowers from the crown in the growing season.
Because 'V-Type' is a selected look rather than a single genetically fixed clone, the strength and neatness of the chevrons vary from plant to plant, and growers typically rogue their seedlings for the boldest, most symmetrical patterning.
Cultivation
Care is the same as for the parent species, Astrophytum asterias. Give it the brightest light you can short of scorching — good light keeps the body flat and compact and intensifies the contrast of the white markings. Use a very free-draining, mineral-rich mix (see Soil and potting mix) and water sparingly, letting the medium dry fully between waterings; keep it dry and cool through winter dormancy to prevent rot. See Watering for seasonal guidance. Protect from hard frost — it is happiest kept above freezing.
'V-Type' plants are frequently grown on their own roots but, like many prized asterias selections, seedlings are often grafted onto a vigorous stock to speed them along and bulk up the display, then optionally grown on or de-grafted later.
See also
- Astrophytum asterias — the parent species
- Astrophytum — the genus overview
- Grafting · Soil and potting mix · Watering · Propagation — seed