Astrophytum ornatum 'Star Cactus'
DESCRIPTION
This dark green, columnar cactus is characterized by deep ribs that form a spiral around the center point, giving Astrophytum ornatum 'Star Cactus' the appearance of a starburst when viewed from above. Accented by numerous golden spines and silvery scales, ‘Star Cactus’ makes a unique, almost ethereal, addition to any succulent collection! Reaching several feet tall at maturity, this plant is a very slow grower, making it well suited to smaller (but still very bright) spaces.
Like most cacti, this variety does not appreciate dampness or excess moisture. As a result, be sure to plant ‘Star Cactus’ in an extremely well draining pot and soil mixture, such as a succulent mix amended with additional pumice, perlite, or course sand. Water thoroughly but infrequently, in accordance with the ‘soak and dry’ method, and ensure plenty of airflow across the soil surface to help ward off potential rot. Bright light is a must to encourage even growth, and to allow the plant to send up soft yellow blooms, with canary yellow throats, during the summer months!
Temperate and dry winter conditions are vital for ‘Star Cactus’s’ success, so take extra care not to over water and to protect the stem from frost.
PLANT SIZING & APPEARANCE
Plant sizing is based on the diameter of the nursery pot (2", 2.5", 3", 4" etc), not the plant itself. Plants may be slightly larger or smaller than the pot they are grow in depending on availability or time of year. While we do our best to ship plants as similar to those pictured as possible, please keep in mind that all plants are unique from one to the next, and display color, shape, and growth variation based on current environment, time of year, and other contributing factors. Please note that we ship our plants as dry as possible in the fall and winter months to prevent root rot or freezing. They will plump back up after planting!
Product information
30-Day Guarantee Details
The overwhelming majority of our orders are delivered without any issues. However, due to the complexities of packing and shipping live plants, sometimes things don’t quite go as expected. For these rare instances, we offer this 30 Day Quality Guarantee to all our customers:
Our plants and products are guaranteed to be of excellent quality, well-rooted and disease free. If plants do not arrive in prime condition, customers may choose one of the following options
- Store credit + 10% (e.g.: $6 purchase + 10% = $6.60 store credit)
- Credit card, PayPal, or Amazon Pay refund
- Replacement plants (if possible)
This guarantee applies to all plants and products for up to 30 days after delivery.
All plants are shipped bare-root with the exception of Bulk Succulent Packs, House Plants, and Plant Club Subscription Boxes. House plants and succulents will ship from separate locations and may arrive at different times. Orders ship Monday-Friday each week. Please allow 1-3 business days for your order to be processed. We ship within the USA and its outlying territories ONLY. Read our full policy here.
Plant Characteristics
How We Ship Plants
Ensuring Your Succulents Arrive Safe and Sound
1. Bare-Root Succulents
We gently remove your succulents from their pots, carefully shaking off excess soil to expose the roots. Each plant is inspected for optimal health, and pots saved for re-use. Please note: Houseplants and succulent packs are shipped fully-rooted in pots.
2. Wrap in Tissue
Succulent are wrapped individually or in pairs with soft tissue paper, forming a protective bundle to ensure the leaves and roots stay safe during transit.
3. Pack the Box Securely
We thoughtfully arrange the wrapped bundles in the shipping box, adding extra cushioning to prevent any movement and ensure your plants arrive in perfect condition.
4. Ship Your Order
Once packed, the box is securely taped and sealed to protect your succulents from the elements, ensuring they arrive fresh and healthy at your doorstep.
First Steps
Plant Mail 101
What you can expect when ordering plants from LEAF & CLAY and what to do when they arrive at your doorstep!