Old Man Cactus (Cephalocereus Senilis) is a perennial cactus in the Cactaceae family with moderate care difficulty. It requires low watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 9-11. This plant is safe for cats and dogs. It can be grown indoors.

Cephalocereus senilis is a tall, columnar cactus characterized by its dense white hair-like spines that resemble an old man's beard.

Old Man Cactus

Old Man Cactus

Cephalocereus Senilis

Cephalocereus senilis is a tall, columnar cactus characterized by its dense white hair-like spines that resemble an old man's beard.

Quick Facts

Type
cactus
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Moderate
Water Needs
Low
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9-11

Safety

🐕
Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, gravelly, well-drained
Indoor:Yes
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:specimen, ornamental, drought-tolerant landscaping

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Old Man Cactus

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Old Man Cactus
Old Man Cactus detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Cactaceae
Genus:Cephalocereus