Oreocereus celsianus
TAXONOMY
FamilyCactaceae
GenusOreocereus
Zone9
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Oreocereus celsianus, commonly known as the Old Man of the Andes, is a species of cactus native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes mountains in South America. It is characterized by its columnar shape and dense covering of white, hair-like spines. This plant is well-adapted to montane tropical climates and can tolerate cold temperatures better than many other cacti. It undergoes a dormancy period during the winter months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Echinopsis Celsiana
Old Man Of The Andes
Old-Man-Of-The-Andes
Borzicactus celsianus
Cereus bruennowii
Cereus celsianus
Cereus fossulatus
Cleistocactus celsianus
Oreocereus bruennowii
Oreocereus celsianus var. bruennowii
Oreocereus celsianus var. lanuginosior
Oreocereus fossulatus var. gracilior
Oreocereus fossulatus var. lanuginosior
Oreocereus fossulatus var. rubrispinus
Oreocereus maximus
Oreocereus neocelsianus
Oreocereus neocelsianus var. ruficeps
Oreocereus neocelsianus var. villosissimus
Pilocereus bruennowii
Pilocereus brunnovianus
Pilocereus brunnowianus
Pilocereus brunnowii
Pilocereus celsianus
Pilocereus celsianus f. auratus
Pilocereus celsianus var. bruennowii
Pilocereus celsianus var. foveolatus
Pilocereus celsianus var. gracilior
Pilocereus celsianus var. lanuginosior
Pilocereus celsianus var. williamsii
Pilocereus foveolatus
Pilocereus kanzleri
Pilocereus williamsii
OVERVIEW
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity40%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Oreocereus celsianus requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in moderate temperatures and prefers low humidity environments. Watering should be infrequent, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This cactus is relatively easy to care for but does require some attention to its specific needs.Soil
This cactus prefers well-draining soil, such as a sandy or cactus mix. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. A mix of sand, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter works well. Avoid heavy, clay-based soils.Fertilizer
Fertilize Oreocereus celsianus sparingly, using a balanced cactus fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 2-7-7. Apply fertilizer during the growing season, typically in the spring and summer, and reduce feeding during the dormancy period.Repotting
Repotting should be done every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its current pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Handle the plant carefully to avoid damaging the spines, and allow the soil to dry out before repotting.Propagation
Propagation is typically done through seed or cuttings. For cuttings, allow the cut end to callous over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Propagation is best done in the spring or early summer.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Oreocereus celsianus. However, you can remove any dead or damaged parts of the plant as needed. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts.Toxicity
Oreocereus celsianus is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, the spines can cause physical injury, so handle with care.Additional
Ensure the plant receives adequate airflow to prevent fungal infections. During the dormancy period, reduce watering and keep the plant in a cooler environment to mimic its natural habitat.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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