Introducing the Astrophytum asterias, also known as Sand dollar cactus, a vibrant member of the Astrophytum genus and is closely related to its other summer-growing species. It has its origin in Texas & Mexico and belongs to the Cactaceae family.  Astrophytum asterias takes its name from the distinctive markings on its surface, which resemble the pattern of a sand dollar. While there is no official "sand dollar meaning" associated with this cactus species, many people find its unique appearance to be aesthetically pleasing and enjoy growing it as a decorative plant. 

This winter-dormant plant can reach up to a height of 6-12 inches and is relatively easy to grow. This adorable sand dollar cactus goes by several other names, star cactus, and sea urchin cactus, for its unique appearance. This spinless Mexican cactus boasts a solitary spherical dark green stem with woolly areoles, making it a real showstopper in any landscape.  

This sand dollars cactus blooms in the mid-summer season and produces pale yellow flowers with orange-red centers, and only lasts for a relatively short period.  As if that wasn't enough to captivate your attention, it generously offers an array of fruits that range from vibrant green to delicate pink or even mysteriously grayish-red hues. 

This fascinating little creature loves being the center of attention and forms itself into a flattened round shape divided into eight sections for maximum visual impact. Each section boasts a creamy white row of fuzzy dots running down its middle while smaller white dots dance around effortlessly, forming mesmerizing patterns across its surface like stars scattered across the night sky. 

This attractive star cactus propagates through seeds, which can be obtained from dried flowers. Astrophytum asterias or Sand Dollar Cactus is an adorable plant that can be a great gift to give your loved ones. 

Watering Needs 

Like most plants, the sand dollar cactus is adapted to arid environments and does not require frequent watering. In fact, overwatering can be harmful to the sand dollar and can lead to issues with root rot and other fungal diseases. One of the coolest features of the sand dollar is the way it stores water in its stems. That means you don't need to water your sand dollar too often - just make sure the topsoil is completely dry before giving it another drink. The soak-and-dry method is the best way to water this cactus.  

Plus, during those hot summer months (growing season), watering once a week is perfect for this little guy. But come wintertime (dormant period), you can cut back to every two weeks or less.  And get this - any type of water (except hard water) will work just fine! So, whether you use tap or filtered, or even rainwater, your Astrophytum asterias will thrive in no time. Just remember to avoid hard water since this cactus doesn't like lime very much. 

Light Requirements 

The Astrophytum asterias star cactus requires bright, direct sunlight (full sun) to thrive. This means that it should be placed in a location where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. If the sand dollar cactus is not receiving enough light, it may become elongated or "stretched out" as it tries to reach for more light. This Mexican cactus can cause the sand dollar cactus to become weak and more susceptible to disease. 

However, protecting the cactus from intense afternoon sun during the hottest months of the year is important, as this can cause sunburn or scorching. A location with bright, indirect light (partial sun) during the hottest part of the day is ideal. Astrophytum asterias color tends to be richer and darker when grown in light to partial shade sun exposure. 

With proper care and attention to its light and temperature requirements, the Astrophytum asterias sand dollar cactus can thrive and provide years of enjoyment. 

Optimal Soil & fertilizer Needs 

The sand dollar likes very airy, porous, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.5- 7.5. It requires fast-draining soil that dries completely between waterings. Use peat-free soil or coconut coir that has been mixed with minerals like grit, sand, or perlite. Soggy wet soil can damage your cactus and contributes to bacterial and fungal rot. In addition, because of a lack of oxygen, soggy soil substitutes air pockets with water, resulting in an anaerobic environment that can kill your plant. 

Ideally, you want to use our specialized potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your cactus to thrive. 

Natural fertilizers with an equal mixture of NPK (5-10-5) are the best choice as they last longer and keep your soil alive by adding other beneficial compounds and microbes that encourage plant health and nutrient absorption. So, skip those harsh chemicals and give your sand dollar some love with a good natural fertilizer! 

Hardiness Zones & More 

Typically grown in hot, arid desert regions, Astrophytum asterias cactus thrives indoors in warm, dry surroundings. If you live in USDA regions 9 to 11, you can also grow these cacti outdoors year-round, but they are not cold- or frost-tolerant, so you should plant them indoors or put them in a pot and move them indoors during the winter if you live outside of these regions. 

Keep your sand dollar cactus away from cold, drafty windows and air vents if you are growing it indoors in a cold climate.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to add something truly exceptional to your garden. Order your very own Astrophytum asterias sand dollar today!

Bloom Season	Late spring, Early summer
Bloom Season	Late springEarly summer
Botanical Name	Astrophytum asterias
Common Name	Sand dollar cactus, sea urchin cactus, star cactus
Dormancy	Winter
Family	Cactaceae
Flower Color	Dark pinkishred
Flower Color	Dark pinkishred, Orangered, purple winered
Genus	Astrophytum
Growth Habit	Spherical to cylindrical stem
Growth Habit	Spherical, cylindrical stem
Growth Rate	Slow
Hardiness Zone	9, 10, 11
Hardiness Zone	9 11(USDA)
Mature Size	6 ft tall
Mature Size	6 ft tall, 12 in. width
Native Area	Texas
Native Area	Texas, Mexico
Plant Type	Perennial succulent
Plant Type	Perennial succulent, cactus
Propagation	By seeds
Propagation	By seeds, cuttings
Resistance	Drought tolerant
Resistance	Drought tolerant, Deer resistance, frost tolerant(For short period)
Resistance	Drought tolerant, Deer resistance, heat resistant
Soil PH	6.5
Soil PH	6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type	Cactus potting mix soil
Soil Type	Succulent potting mix soil
Special Features	Star shaped apperance
Sun Exposure	Full sun
Sun Exposure	Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity	Safe for humans
Toxicity	Safe for humans, dogs friendly, cats friendly
Watering Needs	Low