Sun: full sun
Water: Below average watering needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 9b from 25° F to 30° F (-3.9° C to -1.1° C) to Zone 11b from 45° F to 50° F (7.2° C to 10° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: cuttings, seeds
Flower: in the summer
Flower Type: white or cream
Toxic: Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Outdoors
Common Problems: No major pests
Where to buy Pilosocereus leucocephalus?
Basc Care for Pilosocereus leucocephalus
Watering
Regular watering period should be every 2 weeks
One simple tip for you is that you can use some online apps to check the soil status before you go water your succulents. I would recommend the ThePlantsCheck app, it has some nice features there.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means winter. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "old man cactus"
To ensure Pilosocereus leucocephalus grows to its fullest potential, make sure it receives plenty of direct sunlight. Aim for six hours or more of full sun a day – the ideal place would be near a sunny window or outdoors in your garden. Monitor the leaves closely; if they become pale or soft, relocate the plant to a sunnier spot.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 9b from 25° F to 30° F (-3.9° C to -1.1° C).
Pilosocereus leucocephalus is not cold hardy and does not survive in freezing conditions. However, there are certain strategies that can be used to help the plant thrive despite the chill of winter. Proper drainage and insulation are essential for succulent X during periods of extreme cold. Placing a layer of mulch or gravel on the soil around the plant can also help keep it warm.
Any succulents in the group will need a large space to grow. You should place your pot outdoor. Since this plant needs a lot of space than other succulents, you should consider not planting them together with other succulents/plants.
Propagation
One way to propagate Pilosocereus leucocephalus is by cutting
Propagating Pilosocereus leucocephalus from seeds is a great way to produce new plants without relying on cuttings or divisions. It's important to look for healthy, dark and plump seeds that are slightly sticky when touched. The soil should be pre-mixed with well-draining potting mix, before evenly sowing the seeds and pressing them into the surface. To ensure successful germination, gentle misting of the soil should be done and placed in indirect light.
Toxicity
Pilosocereus leucocephalus is generally non-toxic to humans and animals. However, it is important to be aware that certain parts of the plant may contain toxins which can cause mild skin irritation. It is advised that you keep the plants away from small children or pets, as they may unknowingly ingest them and suffer ill effects.
Pests and Diseases
Pilosocereus leucocephalus is not affected too much by common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents.
