Old man cactus - Cephalocereus senilis (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Old man cactus

Also known as: Old man of Mexico

Old man cactus (Cephalocereus senilis) is a cactus native to eastern Mexico. Old man cactus is widely cultivated in gardens and as a houseplant, resulting in dwindling numbers of old man cactus that grow in the wild. This species is popular due to its woolly appearance. Old man cactus grows best in well-drained soil and bright sunlight, which cause the hairlike fibers to grow.

Scientific classification

Species

Old man cactus (Cephalocereus senilis)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Shrub

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Summer

Harvest Time

5 m to 15 m

Plant Height

Pink, Yellow

Flower Color

Pink

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Old man cactus

Distribution of Old man cactus

Distribution Map

Old man cactus is a cactus native to the arid regions of Central America. It has been extensively cultivated beyond its native habitat, thriving in subtropical and tropical climates across various continents. Today, old man cactus is found in botanical collections and as an ornamental plant in areas with suitable growing conditions, indicating a widespread introduced range thanks to global horticultural enthusiasts.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Calcareous canyons, limestone hills

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Old man cactus is an excellent choice for growing in cactus gardens, rock gardens, and xeriscapes. However, this tall cactus also thrives when grown outdoors in pots on terraces and balconies. The plant’s surface becomes covered in an intriguing dense web of hair-like growth that also makes this cold-tolerate plant an exciting specimen plant in gardens with plenty of sunlight.

Symbolism

Maternal love and care

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Quickly Identify Old man cactus

Dense, frosty-white hairy spines give old man cactus a soft, aged appearance.

Stems can reach impressive heights of 16 to 50 feet (5 to 15 meters).

Nocturnal flowers are solitary, funnel-shaped, and measure 2 to 3 1/2 inches (5 to 9 cm) long.

Fruits exhibit a smooth, obovoid shape with a subtle color palette.

Stems are cylindrical, unbranched, and covered with fine, white hair-like spines.

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Care Guide for Old man cactus

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Old man cactus thrives in arid environments, efficiently storing water and enduring dry periods. With high drought tolerance, it requires watering once every three weeks. Suited for xeriscaping or rock gardens, old man cactus excels in rocky terrains with minimal rainfall.

Fertilize: Fertilize old man cactus during the growing season (spring and summer) every 4-6 weeks using appropriate food to enhance growth and flowering. Reduce feeding in fall and winter during dormancy. Water old man cactus before and after fertilization to prevent root burn and ensure nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Pruning for old man cactus is minimal; only dead flowers and branches should be removed. This helps the plant focus its nutrients on healthy growth.

Propagation: The distinctive old man cactus features white, hair-like spines. To propagate, cut a segment, let it callous for a few days, then plant in well-draining soil. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent rot. With care, the cutting will establish roots.

Repotting: The slow-growing old man cactus features white hair-like spines and is a columnar cactus. Repot every 2-3 years in spring, using a larger pot with good drainage. After repotting, avoid direct sunlight and water sparingly to prevent root rot while it acclimates.

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