Cultivation: It grow easily from seed in cultivation. Despite being revered by many collectors, it not too difficult. This cactus is pretty cold hardy and can survive to -10° C (if kept dry). It needs to be at least 15 cm tall to bloom . This might take no less than seven to 12 years or more depending on the length of the growing period in the local climatic conditions.
A. ornatum loves a very permeable, coarse mineral soil as well as to be strictly kept dry throughout the winter quiescent period since it is sensitive to moisture excesses. If potted, repot it preferably in the spring, if its roots become cramped. Generally, it should be repotted every other year in order to provide fresh soil. However, this doesn't necessarily mean it will need larger containers. Fill about a quarter of the pot with broken crocks, gravel, etc. to promote good drainage. After repotting, do not water for a week or more. To prevent rottenness it is also advisable to surround its root neck by very rough sand or grit, this help a fast water drainage and an appropriate air circulation. In the rest period no high atmospheric humidity!! Feed with a high potassium fertilizer in summer.
Sun Exposure: Light shade to full sun. ( light shadow my be useful in the hottest summer days)
Diseases and pests: Watch for infestations of mealybug, scale insects and spider mite.