Consulta Plantas

Care of the cacti Cleistocactus hyalacanthus or Silver Torch

The genus Cleistocactus, family Cactaceae, includes 40 species of cactus native to Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia. Some species are: Cleistocactus hyalacanthus, Cleistocactus samaipatanus, Cleistocactus winteri, Cleistocactus strausii, Cleistocactus tupizensis, Cleistocactus candelilla, Cleistocactus acanthurus.

Common name: Silver Torch. This species is native to Argentina.

They are medium-sized, light green cacti that branch erectly from the base until they reach 1.20 meters (3.93 feet) in height. They have 16 to 20 ribs with 40 yellowish radial spines and 4-5 central spines. The curious red flowers appear on the south-facing side of the plant.

These fast-growing cacti are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens in rockery, in cactus and succulent gardens, or in pots.

Cleistocactus hyalacanthus needs direct sun exposure and a hot, dry climate. The winter temperature should not be less than 0 ºC (32 ºF).

The soil can be a mixture of 50% coarse siliceous sand and 50% leaf mulch; a commercial cactus substrate can be used. The pot transplant is done in early spring.

During spring and summer water regularly waiting for the substrate to dry. Starting in autumn, reduce the risks; do not water in winter.

Fertilize once in spring with mineral fertilizer for cacti.

Pruning is not necessary.

They are sensitive plants to excess of irrigation.

They propagate by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings in spring or summer.

Images of the cacti Cleistocactus hyalacanthus or Silver Torch