Water
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Ensure excellent drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Also known as Bunny Cactus · Old Man Of Mexico · Old-Man Cactus
Old Man Cactus (Cephalocereus senilis) is a columnar cactus known for its dense, white, hair-like spines, resembling an aged person's appearance.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
75% intensity
Bright, indirect light is ideal for indoor cultivation.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Reduce frequency in winter.
Well-draining cactus or succulent mix
50% intensity
Warm to moderate.
50% intensity
Prefers 20-27°C in summer, can tolerate cooler temps (10-15°C) in winter dormancy.
Infrequent.
25% intensity
Feed once or twice during the growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Ensure excellent drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning is generally not required for aesthetic reasons, as the Old Man Cactus grows slowly and develops its characteristic columnar shape naturally. Remove any dead or damaged stems promptly to maintain plant health.
Propagation is best achieved through stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining cactus mix. This method is more reliable than seed propagation for this species.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, and ensure it has drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Old Man Cactus (Cephalocereus senilis)
Where Old Man Cactus (Cephalocereus senilis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cephalocereus |
| Species | Cephalocereus senilis |
Similar in genus Cephalocereus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
