Old Man Cactus – Cephalocereus senilis

Add a truly distinctive desert plant to your collection with the Old Man Cactus, botanically known as Cephalocereus senilis. This eye-catching cactus is famous for its tall, upright form and its thick covering of silky white hair, which gives it the appearance of an old man’s beard.

Beneath the soft white hair, the plant has a green columnar body with ribs and sharp spines. The white hairy covering helps protect the cactus from intense sun in its natural habitat and also gives it its highly decorative collector appeal. Young plants remain compact and are perfect for pots, while mature specimens can eventually grow into tall architectural cacti over time.

Old Man Cactus grows best in bright light and enjoys direct sun once properly acclimatised. It is well suited for sunny windows, bright balconies, patios and warm outdoor spots with good airflow. Indoors, it should be placed in the brightest possible location to maintain healthy growth.

Use a fast-draining cactus soil and water only after the soil has dried completely. Like most cacti, it does not tolerate overwatering. During winter, watering should be reduced significantly to avoid rot.

Its unusual white woolly look, upright shape and easy care needs make the Old Man Cactus a fantastic option for collectors and anyone looking for a cactus that stands out from the ordinary.