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Cactus Succulent

Cleistocactus strausii

silver torch

A columnar cactus growing to 1.5m, with basally branched erect stems densely covered with short white spines; tubular rose-red flowers 8cm in length are borne scattered along the stems in summer

Other common names
silver torch cactus
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green White
Summer Green White Red
Autumn Green White
Winter Green White
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

North–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Cactaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Cleistocactus are erect columnar cacti with ribbed, eventually branched, cylindrical stems bearing dense spines and tubular flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
S Bolivia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in a standard cactus compost, in full light. Provide low humidity. Water freely when in growth and keep completely dry at other times. Apply a dilute low nitrogen fertilizer fortnightly during late spring and summer

Propagation

Propagate by seed or stem cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Patio and container plants
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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