Espostoa lanata – Peruvian Old Man Cactus with Woolly Coat


Espostoa lanata (Kunth) Britton and Rose, often called the “Peruvian Old Man Cactus,” is a tall, columnar species native to the Andes. Growing slowly but impressively, mature plants reach between 1.5 and 7 metres, branching at the crown with age to form tree-like silhouettes. The stems are cloaked in a dense, warm, woolly covering of white hairs that insulate the plant in high-altitude environments. Unlike Cephalocereus senilis (the Old Man of Mexico), Espostoa lanata also produces sharp spines beneath its wool, giving it both beauty and defense.
 
● Highlights of Espostoa lanata


Appearance: Tall grey-green columns wrapped in dense white hair, with hidden spines beneath.
Size Potential: Can grow up to 7 m tall in habitat, though smaller in cultivation.
Growth Form: Single stems when young, branching near the crown with age.
Adaptation: Thick coat of hairs protects against strong sun, cold nights, and desiccating winds.
 
● Natural Distribution


This species is widespread in Peru and Ecuador, where it inhabits high-altitude valleys and rocky slopes between 800 and 2,500 metres. The woolly hair reflects sunlight and reduces water loss, while spines deter herbivores. Its wide distribution has led to significant variation in spine density, plant size, and overall form, which explains the many names historically applied to it.
 
● How to Grow Espostoa lanata


Light: Requires full sun for dense hair growth; indoors, provide the brightest possible conditions.
Watering: Water deeply during active growth, then let the soil dry fully; keep dry in winter.
Soil: Use a fast-draining mineral substrate enriched with pumice or grit.
Temperature: Tolerates heat well; in winter protect from frost, keep above 8 – 10 °C.
Fertilizer: Feed lightly with diluted cactus fertilizer in summer for steady growth.
Containers: Needs deep, stable pots; avoid frequent repotting as roots prefer undisturbed conditions.
 
● Things to Consider in Cultivation


Patience Required: Slow growing; significant size develops only after many years.
Overwatering Risk: Susceptible to rot if soil is not mineral and well-draining.
Hidden Spines: Beneath the white hair, strong spines can surprise the unwary.
Flowering: Mature plants form a cephalium and produce nocturnal white flowers, though this may take decades in pots.
 
● Why Collectors Prize Espostoa lanata


Few cacti combine elegance and resilience like Espostoa lanata. Its woolly coat gives it a soft, ornamental look while concealing spines and protecting it in harsh Andean climates. For enthusiasts of columnar cacti, it offers a chance to grow a living emblem of Peru’s highlands, with both botanical heritage and dramatic presence.
 
● Etymology


The genus Espostoa is named in honor of Peruvian botanist Nicolás E. Esposto. The species epithet lanata means “woolly” in Latin, a reference to the plant’s dense white hair covering.
 
● Common Questions About Espostoa lanata


How tall will it grow indoors? Usually 1 – 2 m in containers, much smaller than in habitat.
Does the hair affect watering? No; it only protects the stem. Watering must still follow cactus culture rules.
Can it tolerate cold? Only brief light frost; it must be protected in temperate regions.
Is it grafted? Typically grown on its own roots; grafting is not common for this species.
 
● Bring Espostoa lanata Into Your Collection


With its woolly white coat and tall columnar form, Espostoa lanata is a cactus that commands attention. Add this Andean classic to your collection and enjoy the sculptural beauty of one of the most iconic South American columnar cacti.