about cephalo senilis

Cephalocereus senilis (also called Old Man cactus) is a species of cactus native to Guanajuato and Hidalgo in eastern Mexico. It is threatened in the wild, but widespread propagation and popularity in cultivation have reduced the demand on wild populations. It is a tall, columnar species with clusters of stems that may grow to 5–15 m tall; the individual stems are usually unbranched, being unable to withstand the weight of side branches adequately. The most striking feature is the shaggy coat of long, white hairs suggestive of unkempt hair on an old man. The coat is a particularly striking silvery white on the young cactus; as the plant ages the stem begins to lose its covering. The flowers are red, yellow, or white, though the plant may not flower until 10–20 years old. The hairs are modified spines and they make many a plant appear almost snow-white; they serve to protect the plant from frost and sun. However, the hairs are only the radial spines of the cactus; they conceal formidable sharp yellow central spines that belie the inoffensive appearance of the hairy covering.

Growth Habits: Cephalocereous senilis grow quite straight but will sometimes branch from the base to form a group of parallel stems. It will flower after many years of establishment with yellowy white trumpet shaped blooms - but they only come out at night. Large, cylindrical cactus growing to over 15ft high and 2ft diameter; Growth rate: Slow.

Cephalocereus senilis is a tall, columnar species with clusters of stems that may grow to 15-40ft tall; the individual stems are usually un-branched. The most striking feature is the shaggy coat of long, white hairs suggestive of unkempt hair on an old man. The coat is a particularly striking silvery white on the young cactus; as the plant ages the stem begins to lose its covering. The flowers are red, yellow, or white, though the plant may not flower until 10–20 years old. Recommended Temperature Zone: USDA: 9, 10, 11, 12; Frost Tolerance: Hardy, to 10° F at least; Minimum Avg. Temp: 50° F (10°C); Sun Exposure: Sun; Watering Needs: Moderate in summer, drier in winter; Blooming Habits: Flowers are red, yellow white; Speed of Growth: Slow; Mature Height: 15ft; Mature Width: 2ft; Fruiting Habits: N/A; Maintenance: None

Seeds; unimproved desert soils. It is threatened in the wild, but widespread propagation and popularity in cultivation have reduced the demand on wild populations. These plants are becoming very uncommon due to the fact that all available seed has been shut off by the Mexican government. .