Contents
Description
The Echinopsis Peruviana, commonly called the Torch Cactus, is a stunning cactus species native to the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is a tall, columnar cactus that can grow up to 6 meters high, with a diameter of up to 20 cm. The cactus has a green, ribbed stem that is covered in small spines that grow in clusters. In summer, the Torch Cactus produces large, white, fragrant flowers that bloom at night and attract moths and other nocturnal pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Echinopsis |
| Species | Echinopsis Peruviana |
Appearance
The Torch Cactus is a tall, columnar cactus with a green, ribbed stem that can grow up to 6 meters high and 20 cm in diameter. The stem is covered in small spines that grow in clusters. In summer, the Torch Cactus produces large, white, fragrant flowers that bloom at night and attract moths and other nocturnal pollinators. The flowers can be up to 20 cm in diameter and are followed by small, red fruits.
Care Guide
The Torch Cactus is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have a few specific needs. Water: The Torch Cactus prefers well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the winter months, the cactus should be given a period of rest and watered even less frequently.Fertilization: The Torch Cactus should be fertilized once a month during the growing season using a cactus-specific fertilizer.Soil: The Torch Cactus prefers a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.Sunlight: The Torch Cactus prefers full sun exposure, but it should be slowly acclimated to bright light if it has been growing in a lower light environment.Hardiness Zones: The Torch Cactus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Torch Cactus is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs can be treated with a solution of rubbing alcohol and water, while spider mites can be treated with insecticidal soap. Root rot can also be a problem if the cactus is overwatered, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Habitat
The Torch Cactus is native to the Andes Mountains of Peru, where it grows in rocky, well-draining soil at high elevations. It is a hardy plant that can withstand extreme temperatures and drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Torch Cactus?
A: The Torch Cactus should be watered sparingly during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.Q: What is the best soil mix for a Torch Cactus?
A: The Torch Cactus prefers a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Torch Cactus?
A: The Torch Cactus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.Q: How tall can a Torch Cactus grow?
A: The Torch Cactus can grow up to 6 meters high.
Related Plants
– Echinopsis Pachanoi- Echinopsis Lageniformis- Echinopsis Chamaecereus- Echinopsis Spachiana- Echinopsis Ancistrophora
References
– “Echinopsis peruviana.” Cactus Art Nursery. http://www.cactus-art.biz/schede/ECHINOPSIS/Echinopsis_peruviana/Echinopsis_peruviana/Echinopsis_peruviana.htm- “Echinopsis peruviana.” World of Succulents. https://worldofsucculents.com/echinopsis-peruviana-torch-cactus/ – “Echinopsis peruviana.” Arizona State University. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/echinopsisperuviana.html
