About

Espostoa procera is a tall, columnar cactus from Peru producing the characteristic cylindrical, densely white-woolly stems of the genus. A distinctive and architectural cactus for a heated greenhouse or frost-free, sunny garden.

About the genus

Espostoa are columnar cacti from Ecuador and Peru with tall, cylindrical stems covered in dense, white, woolly or bristly hairs concealing sharp spines. Bell-shaped white or rarely red flowers bloom at night, followed by edible fruits. Grown mainly as houseplants or in heated glasshouses.

Plant details

Suggested usesContainers, rock gardens, dry gardens.

Care notes

CultivationPlant in very well-drained, gritty compost. Full sun.
PruningMinimal pruning needed. Remove dead leaves.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed as appropriate.
Pest resistanceMealybugs and vine weevil may occur.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.