Water
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so err on the side of caution. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Also known as Firecracker Cactus · Scarlet-Bugler
Cleistocactus baumannii, the Chaco Torch Cactus, is a columnar cactus native to South America, known for its striking red flowers and fuzzy appearance.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Prefers full sun to light shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in very hot climates.
100% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce significantly in winter.
25% intensity
Well-draining, Sandy, Gritty
50% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures. Protect from frost; minimum temperature around 10°C.
75% intensity
Feed with diluted cactus fertilizer during the growing season (spring/summer).
25% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so err on the side of caution. Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Pruning is generally not required for Cleistocactus baumannii, as it naturally forms a clumping habit. Remove any dead or damaged stems at the base. If propagation is desired, stems can be cut for cuttings.
Easily propagated from offsets or stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining cactus mix. Offsets can be carefully removed and potted up individually.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus soil mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one.
Repot in spring before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Chaco Torch Cactus (Cleistocactus baumannii)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cleistocactus |
| Species | Cleistocactus baumannii |
Similar in genus Cleistocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data