🌿 Peruvian Old Man Cactus
Espostoa lanata
This striking columnar cactus is covered in soft, silvery-white wooly hair that gives it a whimsical, ""old man"" appearance and shields sharp spines hidden underneath.
🌿 Perennial in South Florida
🌍 Native Origin: High-altitude slopes of Peru and Ecuador
☀️ Light: Full sun for the strongest growth and densest wooly covering
💧 Water: Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings; very drought tolerant
📏 Size: Slow-growing columnar cactus that can eventually reach several feet tall over many years
🌸 Bloom Time: Nocturnal white flowers appear on mature plants, though rare in cultivation
🌱 Landscape Use: A unique conversation-starting specimen for xeriscapes and succulent collections
🐾 Pet & Child Safety: Non-toxic, but sharp spines are hidden beneath the soft hair; keep away from curious pets and children
💡 Casaplanta Tip: Plant in Coast of Maine Raised Bed Mix for excellent drainage, then feed sparingly with Espoma Plant-Tone during the growing season.