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Oreocereus leucotrichus
| These favorite Cacti for pots, rock gardens and dry desert landscaping hail from the high Andes. Some species have been dubbed "Old Man" for the dense white, brown, or black hairs that protect their spiny ribbed columns. Pink or purple flowers bloom on tubular stems near the crowns. Their tall shapes contrast well with creeping succulents and globular Cacti. For real drama, try Oreocereus pseudofossulatus, which may reach 9 feet. Oreocereus celsianus fossulatus has distinctive golden spines. Well-adapted to weather extremes, they need full sun, plenty of fresh air, and night temperatures mardedly colder than the day's, but above 50º F. Do not try to keep them indoors because they will languish. Young plants do not bloom for several years, first developing a bushy cluster of columns. Inspect regularly for mealy bugs and red spider mites, which can do hidden damage under the hair and spines. |
Dense, woolly hairs cover spiny columns that reach 2 to 6 inches in diameter.
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Attributes - Oreocereus leucotrichus
Plant Type: Succulent
Bloom Season: Late Spring through Mid Summer
Flower Color: Purple, Red
Foliage: Evergreen
Height: 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Width: 6 ft.
Sunlight: Full Sun
Climate: Zones 9, 10, 11
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Related Plants
Oreocereus celsianus
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