Woolly Spine Haageocereus (Haageocereus lanugispinus)

Woolly Spine Haageocereus

Haageocereus lanugispinus

Fuzzy spines wrap its stems like soft desert wool. Slow-growing succulent cactus; common name: Woolly Spine Haageocereus.

Full sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full direct sunlight for 6+ hours daily; tolerate partial shade during extreme midday heat in summer
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Watering Water deeply only when the entire soil medium is completely dry; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in 15–30°C; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent stem damage
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Characteristics

  • Stem: Columnar, segmented, covered in dense white woolly areoles with short yellow radial spines
  • Flower: Tubular, pale pink to white, nocturnally blooming, up to 8 cm long
  • Fruit: Small, round red fleshy berry, edible when fully ripe
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Care Guide

Watering

Water deeply once weekly when soil is fully dry

Fertilization

Diluted cactus-specific feed once monthly. Discontinue fertilization during winter dormancy to prevent nutrient burn

Eggshell powder topdress:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to supplement calcium without overfertilizing
Pruning
  • Remove dead or discolored stem segments to maintain plant health and appearance
  • Trim overcrowded offsets for propagation; allow cut ends to callus before planting
  • Clear debris from areoles to prevent pest infestations and improve air circulation
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic; minor skin irritation from spines may occur on contact

Humans: No systemic toxicity; minor skin irritation possible from embedded spines

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens or container displays; ripe fruit is edible in small quantities