Goat's Horn Cactus Astrophytum capricorne
ABOUT
The Goat's Horn Cactus, commonly known as Astrophytum capricorne, is an intriguing and unique-looking species. Characterized by its globe-shaped to cylindrical body, the cactus is green with a woolly appearance, especially when young. The surface of the Goat's Horn Cactus is dotted with white scales or flecks, which are technically called areoles but are commonly referred to as "snowflakes" due to their appearance. This pattern gives the plant a star-like outline from above and adds to its ornamental qualities. One of the most distinctive features of the Goat's Horn Cactus is its long, curved spines which resemble the horns of a goat, giving the plant its common name. These spines vary in number, can be quite dense, and are typically dark-colored, often ranging from yellowish to a dark brown. The spines' curvature and robust structure serve as a defense mechanism for the plant. During the flowering season, the Goat's Horn Cactus produces large, showy flowers at the top of its body. The blooms are often yellow or occasionally with a red base, creating a stunning contrast against the green and white of the cactus body. The flowers give way to pinkish or reddish fruit, which adds yet another layer of visual interest to this remarkable cactus. Overall, the appearance of the Goat's Horn Cactus is distinguished by its decorative spines, snowy flecked body, and vibrant flowers, making it a much-sought after plant for cactus enthusiasts and gardeners seeking a sculptural and exotic touch in their collections or landscapes.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Goat's Horn Cactus, Capricorn Cactus.
Common names
Echinocactus capricornis, Astrophytum capricorne var. senile, Astrophytum capricorne var. crassispinoides, Astrophytum capricorne var. niveum, Astrophytum capricorne var. minor.
ToxicityTo humans
The Goat's Horn Cactus is generally not toxic to humans. There are no known toxic consequences of ingesting any part of this cactus, and it does not typically cause poisoning symptoms when handled or consumed. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can exist, and it is always advisable to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants not known to be safe for consumption.
To pets
The Goat's Horn Cactus is not known to be toxic to pets. Ingesting parts of this plant is unlikely to lead to poisoning or cause adverse health consequences in pets. However, as with any non-food plants, ingestion can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if the pet is not used to eating this type of vegetation. It is advisable to prevent pets from chewing on houseplants in general.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Cactus
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value - With its distinctive horned appearance and attractive aesthetic, Astrophytum capricorne, commonly known as Goat's Horn Cactus, adds a unique visual interest to indoor and outdoor gardens.
- Drought Tolerance - Adapted to thrive in arid conditions with low water requirements, making it an excellent plant for xeriscape gardens and water-efficient landscaping practices.
- Low Maintenance - Requiring minimal care, it's an ideal choice for busy plant enthusiasts or those new to caring for cacti and succulents.
- Long Lifespan - Being a slow-growing cactus, it can live for many years with proper care, providing a long-term presence in a plant collection.
- Attracts Wildlife - Flowers of the Goat's Horn Cactus can attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems and promoting biodiversity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Astrophytum capricorne, commonly known as Goat's Horn Cactus, can be used as a living sculpture in gardens, adding a unique design element due to its unusual, horned appearance.
- Its ability to tolerate drought makes it an excellent plant for xeriscaping, a landscaping style that reduces the need for irrigation.
- The Goat's Horn Cactus can serve as a natural barrier due to its spiny exterior, making it a protective perimeter plant for certain areas of a garden.
- Enthusiasts of the plant often use it in educational settings, such as school projects, to teach about desert flora and adaptations to arid environments.
- Astrophytum capricorne's slow-growing nature makes it a popular plant to use in time-lapse photography projects, visually documenting its growth over extended periods.
- It can also be used in artistic installations and eco-art projects, providing an organic touch to modern art pieces.
- As a collector’s item, it has value among cactus enthusiasts, who prize it for its distinctive shape and rare flowering habits.
- This plant can be utilized as a natural tool in workshops or activities focused on plant grafting techniques, due to its compatibility with other cacti species.
- Goat's Horn Cactus is sometimes used in religious or spiritual practices by indigenous cultures, symbolizing resilience and adaptation.
- It is sometimes included in pet-free and child-free homes as a low-maintenance, non-toxic plant that adds a touch of nature without the worry of it being ingested.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Goat's Horn Cactus is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Goat's Horn Cactus is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: The Astrophytum capricorne, commonly known as the Goat's Horn Cactus, is known for its ability to survive in harsh, arid environments, symbolizing the ability to endure and thrive despite challenging conditions.
- Rarity and uniqueness: With its distinctive horn-like spines and less common occurrence, the Goat's Horn Cactus is often seen as representing the beauty of uniqueness and the value of rarity.
- Adaptation: This plant has evolved to store water and reduce water loss, symbolizing the importance of adaptation and the ability to change in order to survive.
- Protection: Its sharp spines serve as a defense mechanism, making it symbolic of protection and setting boundaries.
- Patience: As a slow-growing plant, the Goat's Horn Cactus represents patience and the belief that good things come to those who wait.
WaterGoat's Horn cactus should be watered deeply but infrequently. During the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall, water when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, about every 1-2 weeks. Use about 8-16 ounces of water for smaller pots, ensuring any excess can drain freely to prevent root rot. In winter, reduce the watering to once a month or less, depending on the ambient humidity and temperature. Always err on the side of underwatering, as overwatering can be fatal to the plant.
LightThe Goat's Horn cactus thrives in bright, direct sunlight. It should be placed in a south-facing window where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. If outdoors, it prefers a spot that offers full sun exposure for most of the day. Avoiding prolonged shade is crucial for the plant's health and flowering.
TemperatureGoat's Horn cactus prefers temperatures between 50°F and 80°F, which are ideal for its growth. It can survive minimum temperatures down to 40°F and maximum temperatures up to 100°F but should be protected from frost and extreme heat. Maintaining temperatures within the ideal range will promote healthy growth and flowering.
PruningGoat's Horn cactus generally does not require pruning. However, if there is dead or damaged tissue, it can be gently removed using sterilized tools. This is best done during the growing season, but the cactus is slow-growing and rarely needs such maintenance. When pruning, always take care not to damage healthy parts of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilGoat’s Horn Cactus requires a well-draining soil mix composed of coarse sand or gravel, standard potting soil, and perlite or pumice at a ratio of 1:1:1. The pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 5.5 to 7.0.
RepottingGoat’s Horn Cactus should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot; this helps to refresh the soil and allow room for growth.
Humidity & MistingGoat’s Horn Cactus prefers low humidity levels, typical of arid environments; thus, indoor household humidity is generally adequate for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Goat's Horn Cactus in bright, direct light indoors.
Outdoor
Ensure full sun and protect from excessive moisture outdoors.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleAstrophytum capricorne, commonly known as Goat's Horn Cactus, begins its life as a seed that germinates in well-drained soil with minimal moisture. Seedlings emerge with tiny spines, slowly developing the characteristic stout body and prominent ribs of the mature plant. As the cactus grows, it produces more spines that curve like a goat's horn, giving the plant its common name. The Goat's Horn Cactus reaches maturity in several years, flowering during the summer months with large, bright yellow blooms that open during the day and close at night. After pollination, typically by insects, the flowers develop into fleshy, edible fruits containing seeds. The life cycle can then restart when these seeds are dispersed by animals or naturally fall to the ground, allowing for the emergence of new seedlings.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Goat's Horn Cactus, or Astrophytum capricorne, is commonly propagated through its seeds. To effectively propagate this plant, spring is considered the ideal time due to the warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours which provide a conducive environment for germination and growth. The seeds need to be sown in shallow trays filled with a well-draining cactus mix. After sprinkling the seeds over the soil surface, they should be gently pressed down and covered with a thin layer of sand or fine grit to keep them in place. The tray should then be placed in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight to avoid scorching the delicate seedlings. It's crucial to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, possibly by using a fine mist sprayer. Germination typically occurs within two to four weeks, and once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be carefully transplanted into individual pots.
