Hello and welcome to Brainy Gardener! In this video I'm going to show you the easiest way to take care of a Starfish Cactus. This cactus is very low maintenance and doesn't require a lot of water or sunlight, so it's perfect for people who don't have a lot of time or experience taking care of plants. So if you're looking for an easy plant to take care of, stay tuned and I'll show you how it's done.
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The Easiest Way To Take Care Of A Starfish Cactus (Orbea variegata)
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Video Timestamps
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0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Light and Location
1:16 - Watering
1:32 - Temperature
1:48 - Humidity
2:03 - Fertilization
2:14 - Propagation
3:01 - Potting and Repotting
3:26 - Toxicity and Common Pests
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Summary
Starfish Cactus, also known as Orbea variegata, is a beautiful plant native to Mexico and Central America. The plant is named for its star-shaped flowers, which are usually yellow, and densely dotted with brown spots. The flowers are beautiful, but they have an unpleasant smell that completely stinks up a room. That’s why it’s not recommended to grow these plants in an enclosed space; a patio or deck is a safe choice.
1. Light and Location
Starfish Cactus can be grown outdoors in a sunny location, but it is also happy indoors with bright, indirect light. Some shade from the afternoon is appreciated but not necessary. Since the flowers have a very intense smell, it’s best to keep them away from areas where you spend a lot of time.
2. Watering
This plant needs thorough watering, but allow the soil to dry out in between watering. In the winter, water even less often, just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling. It is quite drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water.
3. Temperature
Starfish cactus does best in warm weather. It can survive short periods of colder temperatures, but it will not flower if the temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It can even survive below freezing temperatures quite easily if kept dry. Good ventilation is key to keeping this plant happy.
4. Humidity
This plant is not particular about humidity and will do well in both dry and humid conditions. However, if the temperature is quite cold, excess moisture in the environment may cause problems for the plant. To be on the safe side, keep dry.
5. Fertilization
Fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season with a succulent fertilizer or a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. In the winter, fertilizing can be skipped altogether.
6. Propagation
Starfish is among the easiest cacti to propagate. Pollination by air is common, and you might find a new Starfish Cactus growing in a pot you don’t remember planting it in. The plant can be propagated by seeds and cuttings. It is much more common to propagate by cuttings. Simply take a cutting from the main plant after it has flowered and allow it to dry out for a few days before replanting in well-draining succulent soil. The cutting will quickly take root and grow into a new plant. To propagate by seeds, wait until the plant has flowered and fruits have developed. The fruits will eventually burst open, revealing seeds that can be planted in well-draining succulent soil.
7. Potting and Repotting
Starfish Cactus needs repotting every two to three years. This plant can be quite aggressive and may overpower other succulents in the same container. Therefore, it’s best to keep it in its pot where it can spread out without disrupting other plants. Carrion Flower is not particular about the potting mix, but well-draining succulent soil is always a good choice. The plant can be easily divided when repotting, and each piece will quickly grow into a new plant.
8. Toxicity and Common Pests
It is non-toxic to humans or animals. But, the flower smell of rotting meat is a concern if you’re planning to spend an extended amount of time around this plant. This plant is susceptible to mealybugs and root rot if overwatered. However, these problems are easily avoidable with the proper care, so don’t let them deter you from growing this beautiful cactus.
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