Old Man of the Andes

Oreocereus celsianus

Water
Low water; water deeply but infrequently during active growth, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Keep nearly dry in winter; do not increase watering simply because temperatures rise.
Toxicity
Description
A slow-growing, columnar cactus native to the high Andes, with green stems cloaked in shaggy white hairs and stout golden to reddish-brown spines.
Deciduous / Evergreen
Special Features
Growth Rate
Growth Habit
Flower Color
Garden Style
Non-toxic
Care Instructions

Light: Full sun to light shade; in Phoenix, provide afternoon shade and avoid intense reflected heat. Acclimate gradually to direct sun.

Water: Low water; water deeply but infrequently during active growth, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Keep nearly dry in winter; do not increase watering simply because temperatures rise.

Soil: Extremely well-drained, gritty soil with a high mineral content. Use raised planting areas or containers with drainage holes where native soil drains poorly.

Mature size: Typically 6–10 feet tall, potentially reaching 12 feet; branching clumps may spread 3–6 feet wide over many years.

Bloom: Mature plants may bloom in late spring to summer; flowering can take many years and is uncommon on small container plants.

Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.

Growth rate: Slow.