Pilosocereus leucocephalus - 3 Feet Tall!

Pilosocereus leucocephalus

You will receive this exact, HUGE specimen!
Measures 36" tall!! 
Showcased here in Hand-Cut Glass Mosaic Planter (sold separately).
Roots as shown.
Will be shipped bare root.

Pilosocereus leucocephalus, commonly known as the Old Man Cactus, Old Man of Mexico, or Woolly Torch, is a columnar cactus species native to Mexico and Central America (Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua). The name Pilosocereus comes from the Latin word "piloso," meaning "hairy," and "cereus," meaning "torch," referring to its hairy stems. The specific epithet "leucocephalus" means "white-headed," referring to the white woolly hairs that cover the tops of its stems.

Key Characteristics:

• Appearance: Tall, columnar cactus with stems that can reach up to 20 feet (6 meters) tall, branching from the base. Stems are dark green with a light blue tinge when young. Has 7-9 ribs and areoles (the small pads where spines grow) covered in thick, white, silky wool, particularly near the top of the stems.
• Spines: Brownish or yellow at first, turning gray with age. Has 7-12 slender radial spines and occasionally 1-2 stronger central spines.
• Flowers: Bell-shaped, whitish to light pink inside, and reddish-green outside. They are about 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) in diameter.
• Fruit: Small, red, spherical berries up to 1.5 inches (4 cm) in diameter, containing a juicy red pulp and black seeds.
• Pseudocephalium: A dense, woolly area near the top of the stems where flowers emerge. This unique feature protects the flowers and developing fruit from predators and extreme temperatures. 

Growing Conditions:

• Hardiness Zones: USDA Hardiness Zones 9b-11a.
• Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: Thrives in well-draining, sandy soil.
• Watering: Water regularly during the growing season (summer), allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
• Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures above 15°C (59°F). Can tolerate brief exposure to temperatures as low as 5°C (41°F), or even 0°C (32°F) if very dry and well-ventilated.
• Propagation: Can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. 

Ecological Importance:

• Keystone Species: Functions as a keystone species in dry landscapes in Mesoamerica.
• Food Source: The fruit provides a source of hydration and sugar for frugivores like birds, bats, and some reptiles.
• Pollination: Flowers are mainly pollinated by bats, especially Glossophaga soricina and Choeroniscus godmani. 

Interesting Facts:

• The name "Pilosocereus leucocephalus" translates to "hairy candle, white-headed".
• It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.
• The fruit is edible.
• It can reach impressive heights, becoming a significant feature in its native landscape. 

Note: Be cautious when handling this cactus due to its spines. Avoid using fatty products like horticultural oil or neem oil on the stems, as they can damage the blue coloration.