Old man cactus

The Old Man Cactus (Cephalocereus senilis) is a unique and striking cactus native to eastern Mexico. It is well-known for its long, white, hair-like spines that resemble an old man’s beard, which help protect it from the harsh sun and temperature extremes in its natural desert habitat. This slow-growing columnar cactus can reach impressive heights of up to 20 feet in the wild but remains much smaller when cultivated indoors. The “hair” is actually modified spines that offer insulation and a degree of camouflage. While it rarely blooms in captivity, older specimens may produce red or pink flowers at the top of the stem. The Old Man Cactus is a popular ornamental plant due to its unusual appearance and low maintenance needs. It thrives in well-draining soil with plenty of sunlight and minimal watering, making it ideal for desert gardens or as a potted indoor plant for cactus enthusiasts.