Xerophyte

Seeds

Very small, black and shining.

Description

Espostoa huanucoensisSN|12852]]SN|12852]] (a.k.a. Peruvian Old Man Cactus ) is a shrubby, tubular growing cactus well adapted to high altitudes. The most striking feature of this species is the warm “woolly coat” it possesses, which serve to protect it from the harsh sun common to its native habitat. The crest form Espostoa huanucoensisSN|12852]]SN|12852]] f. cristata - despite to its beauty - is still very rare and sought after by collectors, for its unique features.

Cephalium

Covering 5-8 ribs, 1-2 m long, with white hairs 5-7 mm long.

Flowers

White, nocturnal, funnelform, nearly hidden by the wool, 5,5-7 cm long.

Blooming Season

Late spring, early summer.

Spines

All radials 30-40, bright golden yellow, needle-like, 0,5-1 cm long.

Ribs

Vertical, low rounded, separated by linear furrows, 5-7 mm high.

Stem

Fan-shaped, erect or diverging, green, 6-8 cm in width.

Fruits

Top shaped, near spherical 2-3,5 cm long, green or purplish-red, very juicy, sweet and edible.

Areoles

With yellowish brown felt almost concealed by white or yellowish hairs and spines. The hairs are neatly brushed, cunningly concealing the sharp spines that are a trap to the unwary.