Astrophytum ornatum Mesemb marquezii An attractive species with

marquezii An attractive species with nicely curved spines

Inflorescence red to orange with purple-blue flowers

Desert Iron was created by a local Grower named Bill Baker

Takes normal cactus care except it is more sensitive to overwatering than most and may be sensitive to excessive hot sun

Shortly after they leaf out

Astrophytum ornatum Mesemb marquezii An attractive species withAstrophytum ornatum Family: Cactaceae. A close relative of the Bishop's Cap cactus (A. myriostigma). The plant is strongly ribbed and covered with white felt. Unlike the Bishop's Cap this species forms numerous yellow spines. For several years the plant will grow bigger in a globular form, but will eventually become upright. Very old specimens can reach 6' or more. Don't worry if you have limited space, it can live in a 6" pots for many, many years