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Astrophytum asterias Purple

Original price was: ₹899.00.Current price is: ₹449.00.

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Selling Size : Single Plant | Pot Included | Secure Packing

The Astrophytum asterias Purple is a highly sought-after cultivar of the Star Cactus (Sand Dollar Cactus), prized for its distinct deep purple or blackish coloration. This coloration is often a response to strong light and is a sign of a healthy, beautifully stressed plant.

Its care is similar to that of the standard Astrophytum asterias, but with a slightly greater emphasis on light to maintain its purple hue.

Here is a detailed care guide for your Astrophytum asterias Purple :

1. Light Requirements

High Light is Key: This cultivar needs plenty of bright light to maintain its unique purple coloration.
- Indoors: Place it on a sunny windowsill, preferably facing south or west. Providing 4 to 6 hours of direct sun (or bright grow light exposure) is ideal.
- To Achieve Purple: The deep purple color is often a stress reaction to intense light and is a desired trait. If the light is too low, the plant will revert to a more standard green color.
- Caution: While it loves sun, protect it from the most intense, scorching midday sun during the hottest summer days to prevent sunburn (which appears as dry, brown spots).

2. Watering

The “Soak and Dry” Method: Like all cacti, overwatering is the most common cause of death. Always let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
- Growing Season (Spring & Summer): Water thoroughly (until water runs out the drainage hole) only when the soil has been dry for a few days. This may be about once every 2–4 weeks, depending on heat and humidity.
- Dormancy (Autumn & Winter): Reduce watering significantly. Keep the plant perfectly dry during its winter rest period, which is essential for healthy growth and spring blooming. Water only sparingly or not at all, as cold and moisture will quickly cause root rot.

3. Soil and Potting

Excellent Drainage is Critical: Use a very gritty, well-ddraining cactus or succulent mix.
- DIY Mix: A good formula is 70-80% inorganic material (like pumice, perlite, lava rock, or coarse sand) and 20-30% organic material (potting soil).
- Pot: Use a pot with a drainage hole. Terracotta pots are preferred as they allow the soil to breathe and dry out quicker.
Repotting: This is a slow-growing cactus. Repot only every 2–3 years, or when it has clearly outgrown its container. Always repot in spring before the new growing season starts.

4. Temperature

Warmth is Ideal: It prefers warm temperatures during the growing season, ideally between $21^\circ \text{C}$ and $32^\circ \text{C}$ ( $70^\circ \text{F}$ and $90^\circ \text{F}$ ).
Winter Rest: During winter dormancy, it can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures (around $5^\circ \text{C}$ to $15^\circ \text{C}$ ( $41^\circ \text{F}$ to $59^\circ \text{F}$ )) provided it is kept completely dry. It is not frost-tolerant and must be protected from freezing.

5. Fertilizing

Minimal Feeding: Fertilizing is not strictly necessary but can support growth.
When to Feed: If you choose to fertilize, do so lightly 1–2 times during the active growing period (late spring/early summer).
What to Use: Use a specialized low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength.

6. Common Issues

Root Rot: Indicated by a soft, mushy base, usually caused by overwatering, especially in winter.
Shrinking/Wrinkling: A sign of dehydration. If the soil is dry, give it a deep drink. If the soil is wet, it might be root rot.
Flowering: Mature plants typically bloom in the spring and summer with large, star-like yellow flowers (sometimes with a red/orange center). Consistent light and a cool, dry winter rest period encourage flowering.

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