Also known as Living-Rock
Ariocarpus kotschoubeyanus, the star rock, is a small, slow-growing cactus native to Mexico, prized for its unique tuberous tubercles and infrequent, beautiful flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright light but avoid intense direct sun, which can cause scorching.
Infrequent
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Well-draining, sandy
50% intensity
Moderate to warm
50% intensity
Ideal temperatures are between 20-30°C during the growing season, cooler (10-15°C) during dormancy.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize very sparingly with a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus formula during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the primary cause of rot. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy to prevent root rot.
A shallow soak is preferable to frequent small amounts.
Pruning is generally not required for Ariocarpus kotschoubeyanus as they are slow-growing and naturally maintain a compact form. Remove any dead or damaged tissue promptly to prevent disease.
Avoid any heavy pruning as it can harm the plant's structure.
Propagation is primarily achieved through seeds, which require specific warm and humid conditions to germinate. Grafting onto a suitable rootstock can also be used for faster growth or propagation of rare forms, but is typically done by experienced growers.
Repot infrequently, only when the plant has outgrown its pot or the soil has become depleted, typically every 3-5 years. Use a very gritty, fast-draining cactus mix.
Repot in spring before the active growing season begins. Handle the plant with care due to its slow growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Star Rock (Ariocarpus kotschoubeyanus)
Where Star Rock (Ariocarpus kotschoubeyanus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Ariocarpus |
| Species | Ariocarpus kotschoubeyanus |
Similar in genus Ariocarpus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
