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Pilosocereus leucocephalus, called old man cactus (along with a number of similar species), old man of Mexico, tuno, and woolly torch, is a species of cactus in the genus Pilosocereus, native to Mexico and Central America. It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. Pilosocereus leucocephalus functions as a keystone species in dry landscapes found in Mesoamerica. The fruit this cactus produces is relied upon as a source of hydration and sugar in arid areas by frugivores such as birds, bats, and even some reptiles.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it poisonous?
We have no record of Woolly torch being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Pilosocereus alensis
- Pilosocereus polygonus
- Pilosocereus lanuginosus
- Pilosocereus chrysacanthus
- Pilosocereus millspaughii
- Pilosocereus collinsii
Classification
- Kingdom
- Plantae
- Phylum
- Tracheophyta
- Class
- Magnoliopsida
- Order
- Caryophyllales
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Genus
- Pilosocereus
- Species
- Pilosocereus leucocephalus
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