Description:
The Espostoa melanostele, commonly known as the Peruvian old lady cactus, is a tall, columnar cactus with a distinctive greyish-green color and dense white hair that increases with age. It thrives in sunny environments and requires well-draining soil, often enhanced with pumice or perlite. This cactus is drought-tolerant, needing minimal watering and preferring dry periods between waterings. It is hardy in zones 9b to 11 but can be damaged by temperatures below 40°F. The plant is characterized by rows of yellow needle-like spines and a hoary appearance due to its apical spination and pubescence.
Sources:
- [1] Espostoa melanostele - Peruvian Old Lady Cactus: Succulents Depot. Visit Source
- [2] Peruvian Old Lady Cactus - Espostoa melanostele: Planet Desert. Visit Source
- [3] Espostoa melanostele - Peruvian Old Lady Cactus: Succulents Depot. Visit Source
- [4] Peruvian Old Lady Cactus - Espostoa melanostele: Planet Desert. Visit Source
Shop for this Plant:
Last Updated June 30, 2025
| Store | Title | In Stock | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planet Desert | Peruvian Old Lady Cactus - Espostoa melanostele ( 4" Pot) |
Yes
|
$8.75 |
| Planet Desert | Peruvian Old Lady Cactus - Espostoa melanostele ( 2" Pot) |
No
|
$6.49 |
| Succulents Depot | Espostoa melanostele - Peruvian Old Lady Cactus ( 6 Inch) |
No
|
$11.40 |
| Planet Desert | Peruvian Old Lady Cactus - Espostoa melanostele ( 1 Gal.) |
Yes
|
$25.29 |