Some experts say is the only way to grow them. The long, white spines or “hairs” of “Old Man Cactus” provide shade from harsh sun, as well as keeping the plant cool. The ideal temperature for growing Cephalocereus senilis indoors is 18 to 29°C (65-85°F). The potting soil you use should have a high mineral content and provide plenty of nourishment. Alternately, just give your plant a shampoo as described above with a insecticidal soap. It is important to be sure that the soil variety is fast draining. Mildew can be a big problem because of the long, soft hair. Light, frequent watering can … Seeds take a long time to grow into something recognizable as a cactus, but it is a cheap and fun project for children. [source], Your email address will not be published. Unglazed pots are more porous than glazed clay pots and allow for better air circulation around the roots. Read on to learn more. The radial spines may appear soft but they conceal the sharp and dangerous central spines of the succulent. It will be quite a while before you have a nice specimen to add to your collection. The Old Man of Mexico is a bit picky and has very specific requirements to survive and thrive. Trying to grow from cuttings or grafts can be a very tricky, and it’s easy to order seed online or purchase it from a cactus specialty nursery. It is recommended to use an unglazed pot to plant Cephalocereus senilis. It protects against the harsh desert sun, which is common to this plant's native home. The appearance is reminiscent of senior citizen pates, lightly cushioned by sparse, long billowy hair. It can grow as a houseplant. Mist as needed to keep the soil very slightly moist. If mildew sets in, it will spread very quickly and kill your plant. During the summertime, they should be kept in full sun in a window or setting with southern or western exposure. Cephalocereus senilis is usually grown in a pot that measures 3-inches (8cm) until the plant becomes 4-inches (10cm) tall. Care & Tips; About. Aside from its charm, the hair serves an important purpose. Since then I fell in love with succulents and now have over 100 different types in my house. Cephalocereus senilis needs 6 hours of sunlight to produce more of its long, silky white hair. How to Grow and Care for Cephalocereus senilis / Old Man Cactus Cephalocereus senilis is a slow-growing indoor plant. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Although the long white hairs on the top are soft, this cactus must still be handled with care. The Cephalocereus senilis succulent is best propagated from seed. In winter, reduce watering to once or twice during the season. The more intense the sunlight, the thicker the hair as it functions to protect the plant from the heat of the sun’s rays. Allow the top couple of inches of soil to dry out completely between waterings. Keep a sharp eye out for re-infestation. For these reasons, you may decide that purchasing one is the best idea. The website of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has declared Cephalocereus as safe and non-toxic for cats and dogs. In addition to needing extra care in terms of temperature, sun exposure, and watering, Old Man Cactus may also need an occasional shampoo. The white hairs are actually the radial spines that serve to protect Old Man Cactus from frost and the heat of the sun. The fine white hairs cover the entire fleshy, columnar body and hide the sharp spines. With lower temperatures, the soil will stay moist longer. Old Man Cactus is a good looking addition to any indoor plant collection. By WoS on August 5, 2015 Cultivation, General Care Cephalocereus senilis, commonly known as Old Man Cactus, is one of the most popular and identifiable Cactus family members. Also, use an unglazed pot for growing Old Man Cactus. (18˚C). A minimum temperature of 40°F/4°C in winter; otherwise, normal room temperature. This will allow the pot to evaporate any excess moisture. In addition to the three-month germination period, these are very slow growing cactus. Old Man Cacti are mostly grown as houseplants. Overwatering is a common cause of rot and disease. It is native to Mexico in areas such as Guanajuato and Hidalgo, located in the east. Step 1: Fill an unglazed pot with cactus soil or a mix of perlite, pumice, and topsoil. Cephalocereus senilis is a slow-growing indoor plant. How to Grow and Care for an Old Man Cactus (Cephalocereus senilis). The shaggy hair covers very sharp yellow spines. You should watch it carefully for pests, however, which can hide in the hair. With the right hot, dry sunny setting the “old man” makes for a stunning conversation piece in your outdoor cactus garden.
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