Growing Cleistocactus cactus is popular in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11. It adds an interesting form to the area where it is planted in the landscape. Read on for more info.
What are Cleistocactus Cacti?
Some of the more commonly planted cacti are of the Cleistocactus genus, like Silver Torch (Cleistocactus straussii) and the Golden Rat Tail (Cleistocactus winteri). These may also grow in large containers.
“Kleistos” means closed in Greek. Unfortunately, when using this as part of the name in the Cleistocactus genus, it is referring to the flowers. Multiple blooms appear on all varieties in this genus but don’t fully open. The plant offers a sense of expectancy that is never fulfilled.
These plants are native to the mountainous regions of South America. They’re found in Uruguay, Bolivia, Argentina, and Peru, often growing in large clumps. Multiple stems grow from the base, remaining small. Info about these cacti says their features are small but abundant.
Photos of the opening flowers show there are many blooms on each type. Flowers are shaped similarly to a lipstick tube or even a firecracker. In appropriate conditions, which are rare, flowers open completely.
The Silver Torch can reach 5 feet (1.5 m.) in height, while the Golden Rat Tail stems are about half that long with drooping, heavy columns cascading from the container. One source describes it as a tangled mess. It is attractive, though, to those who love the various forms of cacti.
Plants are easy to grow and maintain in the southern landscape or in a container that comes inside during winter.
Cleistocactus Cactus Care
Tending a cactus of this family is simple once the plant is properly located. Plant Cleistocactus in full sun in fast-draining soil. In the hottest areas, this plant prefers light afternoon shade. It is possible to provide full sun when the plant gets only morning sun if the sun reaches it early in the morning.
Water in spring and summer when the top few inches (8 cm.) of soil are dry. Reduce watering in autumn to about every five weeks if the soil dries out. Withhold water in winter. Wet roots along with cool temperatures and dormancy often cause root rot on these and other cacti. Many cacti should not be watered at all in winter.
-
Creative Ideas For Plant Containers: 7 Ways To Save Money And Add Charm To A GardenIf you are looking for great ways to add personality to your container gardening – and even save yourself some money – then try these creative ideas for plant containers
-
How To Make A Bouquet Garni Or Herb Bundle For CookingIf you’re a great cook, you may have made an herb bundle before. If this is a new idea, learn how to add sparkle and interest to your dish with a bouquet garni.
-
Variegated Succulents To Add To Your Plant CollectionRead about some of the pretty variegated species that add beauty and interest to your succulent collection.
-
How To Protect Succulents And Cacti From RainRain has the potential to cause damage to our cacti and succulents. However, when planted in proper soil, rainfall may perform as just a deep watering. Read on for more.
-
Succulents and Frost: How To Save A Succulent From Frost Or FreezeCan succulents withstand cold? Succulents and frost don't traditionally go together and can result in damage, but you may be able to save frozen succulents.
-
Pink Succulents Varieties To Try: How To Grow Perfect Pink Succulent PlantsPink succulents may display the color on leaf edges or with streaks or blotches mingled throughout the foliage. Here are our favorites.
-
10 No Fuss Cacti - What’s The Best Low Maintenance CactusIf you’re thinking of adding plants to your collection, consider no fuss cacti. Click here for an easy cacti list, even for beginners.
-
5 Best Succulents For A BathroomSome succulents can be great options for bathroom decoration. Read on for our top five bathroom succulent ideas.
-
What Is A Succulent Starter Kit - Best Succulent Starter KitsWhile garden kits are not the most inexpensive option for growing succulents, they do include everything you’ll need. Grow succulents from seed by using a succulent seed starter kit to learn the process and to check your results.
-
Dazzling Succulents - Succulents With Striking FlowersWhen you think of succulents you may just envision their unique leaves and stems. But succulents also produce bright and bold flowers in the right conditions. Read on to learn more.
