Astrophytum myriostigma onzuka

[cactuspic]

Usually five sided, Astrophytum myriostigma is valued for its sculptural shapes and interestings. the white flocking is composed of trichomes, which are small hairy structures that often produce chemicals to deter insects.

This particular plant was bred for its heavy flocking pattern. It is about 1 1/2 inches tall. The focus stacked image was composited from 84 slices. Hope you enjoy

Irwin

[DaveW]

What selective breeding can do. I'll still stick with my normal one!

DaveW

[cactuspic]

Love those too.

Irwin

[beetleman]

Dave or Irwin.....got a picture of a "Normal" one for comparision? A great picture Irwin. Very nice patterns & textures. 84 slices

[DaveW]

Had a look but I have only so far taken a picture of the almost nude and least interesting form:-

Astrophytum myriostigma v. potosinum



There is one here though Doug until Irwin posts one:-

http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/ ... tigma.html

DaveW

[cactuspic]

Dave, nice shot, nice plant. I have a nudem that I will shoot today If I have a chance.

Doug, I thought I would get these out yesterday, but the day got away from me. I have a ton of old slides, but much to my surprise, I had not returned to these marvelous plants since going digital. So I took and compiled a few stacks yesterday. Among a few of my budiies, these is a sentiment that you can never have too many atrophytums. They tend to be small, each one has its own individual shape and flocking pattern, and are easy to grown. They are great living sculptures that have great flowers, as Dave's shot shows. I hope you enjoy.

Irwin

[Harold Gough]

I assume that the 84 slices were an exercise, in that, at this low magnification, excellent results can be obtained in a single shot.

Harold