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Description
Cleistocactus Strausii, also known as Silver Torch Cactus, is a species of cactus native to Bolivia and Argentina. This plant is a slow-growing, columnar cactus that can reach up to 10 feet tall and 4 inches in diameter. The body of the cactus is covered with silver-grey spines, which can grow up to 1.5 inches long. The plant produces bright red flowers that bloom in summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cleistocactus |
Appearance
Cleistocactus Strausii has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other cacti. The plant has a columnar shape that can grow up to 10 feet tall. The body of the cactus is covered in silver-grey spines that can grow up to 1.5 inches long. The spines are arranged in a radial pattern, which gives the plant a distinctive look. The plant produces bright red flowers that bloom in summer and fall.
Care Guide
Cleistocactus Strausii is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are a few tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a cactus-specific fertilizer.Soil: Use well-draining soil, such as a mix of sand and perlite.Sunlight: Cleistocactus Strausii prefers full sun, but it can also grow in partial shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cleistocactus Strausii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are a few issues that can affect this plant:Mealybugs: Mealybugs can infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and stems.Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.Spider Mites: Spider mites can also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves.
Habitat
Cleistocactus Strausii is native to Bolivia and Argentina, where it grows in rocky and sandy soils at high elevations. The plant is adapted to hot and dry climates and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Cleistocactus Strausii?
A: Water the plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.Q: What kind of soil does Cleistocactus Strausii prefer?
A: Use well-draining soil, such as a mix of sand and perlite.Q: How tall can Cleistocactus Strausii grow?
A: This plant can grow up to 10 feet tall.Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use for Cleistocactus Strausii?
A: Use a cactus-specific fertilizer and apply it once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
Here are a few related plants to Cleistocactus Strausii:
- Cleistocactus hyalacanthus
- Cleistocactus winteri
- Cleistocactus samaipatanus
References
- “Cleistocactus strausii.” Cactus Art Nursery. Accessed May 19, 2021. https://cactus-art.biz/schede/CLEISTOCACTUS/Cleistocactus_strausii/Cleistocactus_strausii/Cleistocactus_strausii.htm.
- “Cleistocactus Strausii.” World of Succulents. Accessed May 19, 2021. https://worldofsucculents.com/cleistocactus-strausii-silver-torch-cactus/.
- “Cleistocactus Strausii.” Gardening Know How. Accessed May 19, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/cleistocactus/caring-for-silver-torch-cactus.htm.
