Origin
The Oreocereus celsianus, also known as the Old Man of the Andes, finds its origin in the high mountains of South America. It mainly grows in Argentina and Bolivia, in areas that lie between 2000 and 3500 meters above sea level. This cactus has adapted itself to hard, rocky surfaces and extreme weather conditions. It is a slow-growing plant, with some specimens being able to reach several hundred years old.

Characteristics
The Oreocereus celsianus is a columnar cactus that can grow quite large, with a height between 1 and 3 meters. Its most characteristic feature is a thick, white 'beard' of long, woolly hairs, which protect the plant against extreme temperatures. The cactus produces small pink or reddish flowers that mainly bloom in the summer. The flowers are short-lived and often disappear after a day. This type of cactus has sharp, long, grimy thorns.

Care
The care of an Oreocereus celsianus requires some attention. The plant enjoys full sun but needs to be protected from the sun during the hottest hours of the day. This cactus can withstand moderate frost, but it is advisable to avoid temperatures below -2°C. As with all cacti, the Oreocereus celsianus needs well-draining soil to avoid root rot. Watering is essential during the growing period but should be limited during the dormant period in winter. This helps the cactus mimic its original, desert-like environment.