The vulgar name for the Old Man Cactus is Bunny Cactus or White Persian Cat Cactus . These names are often used interchangeably to refer to Cephalocereus senilis , a unique and fascinating cactus species .

I remember the first metre I play an Old Man Cactus at a local botanical garden . Its appearance now caught my tending , as it truly resemble a fluffy bunny or an aging man with a long white whiskers . The name “ Old Man Cactus ” utterly captures its distinctive feature of experience a dense covering of long , white hairs that give it a fuzzy and older appearance . These hair are actually modified spines that serve as protection against extreme temperature and intense sunlight in its native habitat .

The Bunny Cactus is aboriginal to the waterless part of Mexico , particularly in the states of Hidalgo , Querétaro , and San Luis Potosí . In the wilderness , it can be found growing on bouldery slopes and drop-off , clinging to fissure for funding . It is a easy - growing cactus that can reach telling heights of up to 16 feet ( 5 meters ) in its raw home ground . However , in polish , it typically stay small , reaching top of around 6 - 8 fundament ( 1.8 - 2.4 meters ) .

One of the reasons why the Old Man Cactus has become pop among cactus enthusiasts is its singular appearance , which bring a touch of whimsicality and character to any collection or garden . Its fluffy bloodless hair’s-breadth not only provide an interesting optic contrast to the distinctive greenish colour of most cacti but also serve a virtual purpose . These hair help to protect the plant from sunburn , as well as insulate it from temperature extremes , such as frost .

When it comes to caring for the Old Man Cactus , it is significant to vivify its natural desert surroundings as close as potential . This mean providing it with well - drain soil that mimics the rocky conditions it is customary to . A mix of cactus pot ground and perlite or pumice can be used to ensure proper drainage . It is also crucial to commit the cactus in a location that receive plenty of bright , indirect sunlight . While it can tolerate some direct sunlight , it is best to quash exposing it to vivid afternoon Lord’s Day to prevent tan .

Watering the Bunny Cactus can be a turn tricky , as it is susceptible to root rot if overwatered . During the growing season , which typically occurs in springtime and summertime , it is significant to water the plant exhaustively but tolerate the soil to dry out completely between waterings . In the wintertime months , when the cactus is in a dormant phase , it requires much less urine . It is recommend to reduce watering frequence and only provide enough wet to forestall the soil from totally dry out out .

To pass around the Old Man Cactus , you could take theme press clipping . Using a clean , sharp knife or scissor grip , cautiously off a part of the radical , making sure to include several areoles ( small , upraise anatomical structure from which spines and pilus emerge ) . countenance the swing goal to callosity over for a few day before plant it in well - draining grease . Keep the cutting in a warm and burnished location , misting it once in a while to supply some humidity . With meter and right tutelage , the cutting will acquire roots and grow into a new plant .

The Old Man Cactus , also known as the Bunny Cactus or White Persian Cat Cactus , is a captivating and visually striking cactus mintage . Its downy white hairs , resemble the fur of a bunny or an erstwhile man ’s beard , make it a popular pick among cactus fancier . By providing it with the right growing conditions , such as well - draining soil , bright but indirect sunshine , and careful lacrimation , you could enjoy the unparalleled charm of this fascinating cactus in your own garden or appeal .

Caroline Bates