Oreocereus celsianus - Old Man of the Andes Cactus – CactusWarehouse
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Oreocereus celsianus Old Man of the Andes Cactus

$500.00
Size

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Oreocereus celsianus (Old Man of the Andes)

A shaggy, white-haired columnar cactus that brings instant character at a bold size. These 30″–40″ plants love bright sun, dry roots, and cool nights, making them tough, low-water showpieces for patios and rock gardens.

Growth Habit: Columnar, clumps with age Bloom Season: Spring–Summer (pink to red tubular) Dormancy: Winter Sun Exposure: Full sun to bright light Soil Needs: Fast-draining, gritty cactus mix Hardiness Zones: 8a–10b Native To: High Andes (Peru, Bolivia, N. Argentina)
What you’ll receive:

Bare-root Oreocereus celsianus approximately 30″–40″ tall. Natural hair density, ribbing, and spine color vary by plant.

At this size, Old Man of the Andes makes a dramatic, low-maintenance focal point. The white hairs help protect from sun and cool temps, while the columnar ribs add texture. Mature plants may produce pink-red blooms in warm seasons. Give strong light, very fast drainage, and careful watering for best results.

After Arrival

Carefully unpack and pot your rooted cactus. Place it in bright light and wait about 1 week before the first light watering so roots can settle. Some flattening of the “hair” from shipping is normal and will fluff back up with time and airflow.

Transplant Tips

• Use a sturdy pot with a drainage hole. Choose a stable, heavier container so tall plants are less likely to tip in wind.
• Fill with a gritty cactus mix that drains very fast. Aim for a high mineral blend (pumice, perlite, coarse sand). Keep soil drier in cool months.
• Set the plant slightly high in the pot to keep the base dry. Do not bury the stem hairs.
• After repotting, keep dry for 5–7 days, then water lightly. Always let soil dry completely before watering again.
• Sun: Give 6+ hours of direct sun outdoors. If moving from shade, increase sun time a little each week to avoid burn. Rotate the pot every few weeks so the column gets even light.
• Cold: Dry roots handle cold better. If a frost is forecast, keep soil dry and shelter from wet, freezing weather.

Product Details

Cactus Features

Growth Habit: Columnar, clumping with age
Bloom Season: Spring–Summer (pink to red tubular flowers)
Dormancy: Winter
Sun Exposure: Full sun to bright light (6+ hours daily)
Soil Needs: Fast-draining, gritty cactus mix (pumice, perlite, coarse sand)
Hardiness Zones: 8a–10b (approx. 10°F to 40°F)
Native To: High Andes Mountains of Peru, Bolivia, and northern Argentina

Cactus Care

  • Full sun is best; partial sun is okay in hotter climates
  • Let soil dry out completely between waterings
  • Fast-draining cactus mix
  • 8–10 (protect from hard freezes)
  • Upright columns up to 8 feet in ideal conditions, but much shorter in pots

FAQ

Q: Can I grow Old Man of the Andes indoors?

A: Yes, if you have a very bright south- or west-facing window. The more sun, the thicker and whiter the hair growth will be.

Q: How often should I water a large (30″–40″) plant?

A: Only when the soil is completely dry, usually every 3–5 weeks in warm months, less in winter. Larger plants retain more water and need less frequent watering.

Q: How cold can it get before I bring it inside?

A: It can handle brief dips to about 10°F if completely dry, but it’s safest to protect it from moisture and frost below 25°F.

Q: Should I trim or clean the white hairs?

A: No. The hairs protect the cactus from sun and cold. Just keep them free of debris and allow good airflow.

Q: When will it bloom?

A: Mature plants (usually over 5–6 feet tall) may produce pink to red tubular flowers in late spring or summer when given full sun and dry conditions.

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Shipping & Guarantee

At Cactus Warehouse, we take pride in shipping the healthiest, hand-selected cacti straight from our nursery in Fallbrook, CA. All our cacti are hardgrown and carefully checked to ensure you get the best.

  • Schedule: Orders ship on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
  • Delivery Time: Most orders arrive within 3–5 business days once shipped.
  • Rates: Free nationwide shipping on all orders.
  • Carriers: We ship via UPS and USPS with full tracking

  • Safe Packaging: Each cactus is wrapped in protective kraft paper to reduce movement. During cold weather, you have the option to add heat packs to keep your plants safe.
  • Care Instructions: Every package includes simple, step-by-step care instructions so you know exactly what to do after arrival.
  • 30-Day Happiness Guarantee: If your cactus doesn’t arrive healthy and happy, we’ll make it right. Email us at info@cactuswarehouse.com and we’ll take care of you.

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