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Cactus Succulent

Pilosocereus leucocephalus

old man cactus

This cactus hails from Central America. Distinctive for the silky growth surrounding its spines, it has earned the nickname, woolly torch. The ribbed trunks may be branched and can reach 6m.Older plants will bear showy pale pink flowers with lemon throats on their crowns. In the wild these are principally bat pollinated

Synonyms
Cephalocereus leucocephalus
Cephalocereus palmeri
see moreCephalocereus maxonii

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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green Grey Silver
Summer Green Grey Silver Pink Yellow
Autumn Green Grey Silver
Winter Green Grey Silver
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H1B
Botanical details
Family
Cactaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Pilosocereus is a genus of vigorous and fast-growing cacti which often become large in size, with some varieties reaching over 4m. Some species are branched in form and night-flowering whilst other are more shrub or tree-like. Many have an attractive blue colour. Flowers are funnel-shaped with greenish or reddish outer segments.

Name status

Correct

Plant range
E Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala

How to grow

Cultivation

Requires good light and sharp drainage. Increase watering and feeding in summer months to promote growth. A minimum temperature of 11oC. Could be placed outdoors in a sheltered spot in summer. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation

Propagation

Propagate by stem cuttings or by seed in summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

Pruning is not required

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids, capsid bug, earwigs, eelworms, mealybugs glasshouse red spider mite and glasshouse whitefly

Diseases

Over-watering, especially in cooler temperatures will cause rot

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