Espostoa melanostele

Espostoa melanostele is a species of rare, endangered, long-lived, slow-growing plant in the family Cactaceae.

Endangerment
Horticultural collection and the fact that the plant is slow growing contribute to the fact that the plant is endangered.

Drought tolerance
This xerophyte is tolerant of most droughts when mature.

Subspecies

 * Espostoa melanostele subsp. melanostele
 * Espostoa melanostele subsp. nana (F.Ritter) G.J.Charles synonym Espostoa nana F.Ritter

Uses
The plant is not only used for its fruit, but also grown for decorative qualities, such as its yellow flowers and its white fleece.

Cultivars
A cultivar, E. melanostele 'Peruvian old lady', is so-named because of its resemblance to an old lady (especially when flowering and fruiting).

Hazards
The spines may be considered a hazard to children, but actually come off the skin very easily with proper handling.