Cacti- Espostoa - Old Man Cactus

Espostoa is a genus of columnar cacti native to the highlands of Peru and Ecuador, best known for its dense covering of white, hair-like fibres that resemble an old man's beard—hence its common name, Old Man Cactus. This striking feature not only gives the cactus a unique, ornamental appeal but also protects it from intense sunlight in its native habitat.

Key Characteristics:

• Appearance: Tall, upright stems covered in soft white hairs that conceal the sharp spines beneath.
• Size: Can reach over 2 metres in the wild; in pots, it remains much more compact, usually under 60 cm.
• Growth Habit: Slow-growing, with a solitary or branching habit over time.
• Flowers: Produces nocturnal, tubular white or pink flowers on mature plants, although flowering is rare in cultivation.

Care Tips:

• Light: Thrives in bright, full sun. The white hairs help filter strong light, but young plants may need protection from scorching.
• Watering: Water thoroughly in spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in autumn and keep almost dry in winter.
• Soil: Needs well-draining soil; a cactus mix with added sand or perlite is ideal.
• Temperature: Prefers warm conditions and should be protected from frost. Keep above 10°C for optimal health.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced cactus fertiliser monthly during the active growing season.
• Potting: Suitable for containers with good drainage. Avoid overhead watering to prevent water getting trapped in the hairy surface.

The first photos serves a display purpose only. The plant with single stem is in a 130mm diameter container. While the image provides a representative depiction of what you will receive, but may vary slightly because no two succulents are the same. 

Want your succulent with a pot?

We usually ship bare root for freshness and to keep costs low, but we’re happy to pot your plant on request!

Just click here to make your request.

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