Austrocephalocereus Espostoopsis Dybowskii

Austrocephalocereus espostoopsis dybowskii
Common Name: Dybowski’s Old Man Cactus

Austrocephalocereus espostoopsis dybowskii, often simply called Espostoopsis dybowskii, is a rare and captivating columnar cactus from Brazil known for its elegant, upright growth and its distinctive coat of dense white wool that gives it a soft, fuzzy appearance—earning it comparisons to the more commonly known Old Man Cactus (Cephalocereus senilis).

As it matures, this slow-growing cactus develops a narrow cephalium (flowering zone) covered in even denser wool, from which small, tubular pink to purple flowers emerge—typically in summer and only at night. Its slender, cylindrical form and ghostly fuzz make it a striking accent in any collection, especially when planted in contrast with darker or more textured species.

☀ Light Requirements
Thrives in full sun to bright filtered light. Outdoors, place in the sunniest spot available. Indoors, give it as much direct light as possible to maintain its woolly coat and columnar shape.

💧 Watering Needs
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Water more frequently during the growing season, and reduce to near zero during winter dormancy.

🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Cold-tolerant to around 30°F if kept dry. Protect from frost and freezing moisture. For cold-climate shipping, we recommend adding a [Heat Pack].

✨ Special Features
• Dense White Wool – Unique visual texture and natural sun protection
• Rare Brazilian Native – A true collector’s columnar cactus
• Cephalium-Forming – Produces flowers from a woolly crown with age

Other Common Names:
Espostoopsis dybowskii, Dybowski’s Old Man Cactus, Brazilian Fuzzy Column

This cactus will ship bare root and will be ready to place directly in a well draining soil mix like our Custom Cactus Mix.

Photos in the listings unless otherwise specified are representative of the plant that will be sent to you.
However, Plants grow differently and each plant may vary slightly in shape, size, growth pattern, etc.
Of course, if you receive a plant that you are dissatisfied with please reach out to us. We want to make it right!

If temperatures near you are below 45℉ we highly recommend adding a Heat Pack to your order.
If temperatures where you live will be much lower than 20℉ even heat packs may not work. You may consider waiting until things warm up a bit. We know you love your plants just like we do and we wouldn't want any of them to freeze.