Cleistocactus strausii, the silver torch cactus, is a striking columnar cactus with woolly white spines resembling a torch. Native to high altitudes in Bolivia and Argent
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun is ideal.
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Can tolerate some partial shade, but may become leggy.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Infrequent watering, with prolonged dry periods, especially in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm to moderate temperatures.
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-27°C during the growing season. Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 7°C in winter, provided it is kept dry.
Feed during growing season only.
25% intensity
Use a diluted cactus fertilizer every 4-6 weeks in spring and summer. Do not fertilize in fall and winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer).
Reduce watering significantly in autumn and winter, allowing the soil to remain dry for extended periods to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage.
Pruning is generally not necessary for Cleistocactus strausii. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems at the base using a clean, sharp knife.
This helps maintain the plant's aesthetic and prevents the spread of potential issues. Wear gloves to protect against spines.
Propagate by offsets (pups) that naturally form at the base of the plant. Carefully remove offsets with a clean knife, allow them to callus over for a few days to a week, and then plant in well-draining cactus mix.
Rooting typically occurs within a few weeks.
Repot your Silver Torch Cactus every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its current container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one, with ample drainage holes.
Use a gritty, fast-draining cactus soil mix. Repot in spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Silver Torch Cactus (Cleistocactus strausii)
Where Silver Torch Cactus (Cleistocactus strausii) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cleistocactus |
| Species | Cleistocactus strausii |
Similar in genus Cleistocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
