What Are Cleistocactus Cacti – Cleistocactus Cactus Care Tips
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.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And 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.
Becca Badgett was a regular contributor to Gardening Know How for ten years. Co-author of the book How to Grow an EMERGENCY Garden, Becca specializes in succulent and cactus gardening.
-
6 Flower Seeds I’m Gifting Everyone I Know This Christmas – To Inspire Their Garden In 2025
Give the most meaningful gift of growing this holiday season. Senior Editor Melanie shares her flower seed picks to delight both new and experienced gardeners.
By Melanie Griffiths
-
Bold & Beautiful Festive Bloomers: 6 Christmas Flowering Plants For A Big Holiday Buzz
‘Tis the season for celebration and easy living, so make sure your plants are up to it. These dynamic Christmas flowering plants will help you see out the season in style
By Mary Ellen Ellis
-
Variegated Succulents To Add To Your Plant Collection
Read about some of the pretty variegated species that add beauty and interest to your succulent collection.
By Becca Badgett
-
How To Protect Succulents And Cacti From Rain
Rain 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.
By Becca Badgett
-
Succulents and Frost: How To Save A Succulent From Frost Or Freeze
Can 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.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
Pink Succulents Varieties To Try: How To Grow Perfect Pink Succulent Plants
Pink succulents may display the color on leaf edges or with streaks or blotches mingled throughout the foliage. Here are our favorites.
By Becca Badgett
-
10 No Fuss Cacti - What’s The Best Low Maintenance Cactus
If you’re thinking of adding plants to your collection, consider no fuss cacti. Click here for an easy cacti list, even for beginners.
By Becca Badgett
-
5 Best Succulents For A Bathroom
Some succulents can be great options for bathroom decoration. Read on for our top five bathroom succulent ideas.
By Becca Badgett
-
What Is A Succulent Starter Kit - Best Succulent Starter Kits
While 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.
By Becca Badgett
-
Dazzling Succulents - Succulents With Striking Flowers
When 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.
By Bonnie L. Grant