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Description
Pilosocereus Leucocephalus, also known as “White Head Old Man Cactus,” is a species of cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. This unique cactus is native to Brazil and has a cylindrical shape that can grow up to 15 feet tall. It has a woolly, white head at the top of the plant that can reach a diameter of 6 inches. Its stem is green and ribbed, with spines that grow up to 2 inches long.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Pilosocereus |
Appearance
Pilosocereus Leucocephalus is a tall cactus that can grow up to 15 feet. Its cylindrical stem is green and ribbed, with spines that grow up to 2 inches long. The most distinctive characteristic of this cactus is its white head that can reach a diameter of 6 inches. The woolly white head consists of long, soft hairs that protect it from the sun’s rays. The stem of the cactus can grow up to 5 inches in diameter, and it can produce flowers that are 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are usually pink or purple and bloom in the summer.
Care Guide
Pilosocereus Leucocephalus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of this cactus:Water: Water the plant once a week during the growing season, and once a month during the winter. Make sure to allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a cactus fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Plant the cactus in a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for cacti and succulents.Sunlight: Place the cactus in a bright, sunny location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Pilosocereus Leucocephalus is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pilosocereus Leucocephalus is a hardy plant that is resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. To prevent infestations, keep the plant in a clean and dry environment. If you notice any signs of infestation, treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Pilosocereus Leucocephalus is native to Brazil and can be found growing in the Cerrado and Caatinga biomes. It grows in rocky and sandy soils and can tolerate drought and high temperatures. The plant is well-adapted to the arid conditions of its habitat.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Pilosocereus Leucocephalus?
A: Water the plant once a week during the growing season, and once a month during the winter.Q: What kind of soil should I use for my Pilosocereus Leucocephalus?
A: Plant the cactus in a well-draining soil mix that is specifically designed for cacti and succulents.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pilosocereus Leucocephalus?
A: Pilosocereus Leucocephalus is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.Q: What should I do if my Pilosocereus Leucocephalus gets infested with pests?
A: Treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent infestations.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Pilosocereus Leucocephalus:
- Pilosocereus Pachycladus
- Pilosocereus Azureus
- Pilosocereus Lanuginosus
- Pilosocereus Gounellei
References
- “Pilosocereus leucocephalus.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed 28 June 2021. https://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/PILOSOCEREUS/Pilosocereus_leucocephalus/Pilosocereus_leucocephalus/Pilosocereus_leucocephalus.htm.
- “Pilosocereus leucocephalus.” World of Succulents. Accessed 28 June 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/pilosocereus-leucocephalus-white-head-old-man-cactus/.
