Pot Size: 8"
Accepted Scientific Name:
Espostoa lanata
Origin and Habitat:
Espostoa lanata, commonly known as the Peruvian Old Man Cactus, is native to the Andean regions of southern Ecuador and northern Peru. It grows at elevations between 800 and 2,500 meters in arid valleys, rocky slopes, and high-altitude scrublands. These regions experience strong sunlight, low humidity, and significant day-to-night temperature variations. The dense woolly covering of this cactus protects it from intense UV radiation and moisture loss, enabling it to thrive in these harsh, sun-drenched environments.
Description:
Espostoa lanata is a slow-growing, columnar cactus that can reach 12–24 inches tall and about 3 inches wide when cultivated in containers. In habitat, it may grow much taller. Its stems are cylindrical, ribbed, and densely covered with long white hairs and fine spines, giving it a soft, woolly appearance. Mature plants may develop a cephalium—a thickened, woolly structure at the top from which flowers emerge. Flowers are nocturnal, tubular, and typically white to pale pink, though blooming is rare in cultivation.
Cultivation:
Zone: Best suited for USDA Zones 9–11, or indoors in containers.
Temperature: Ideal range is 18–30°C; protect from temperatures below 5°C.
Growth Rate: Slow, especially in cooler or lower-light conditions.
Soil: Use a gritty, fast-draining mix with added pumice to prevent excess moisture.
Watering: Water deeply but infrequently during the growing season; let soil dry completely between waterings. Keep dry in winter.
Fertilizing: Apply a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during active growth in spring and summer.
Light: Requires full sun to bright light. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant but susceptible to mealybugs and root rot in poor drainage or overly humid conditions.
Propagation:
Best propagated from seed. Sow in a pumice-rich, well-drained mix and maintain warmth and humidity until germination occurs. Cuttings are rarely used due to the columnar growth habit.
