Sun: full sun
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C) to Zone 10b from 35° F to 40° F (1.7° C to 4.4° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: cuttings, seeds
Flower: rarely, in the summer
Flower Type: pink, red-pink
Toxic: Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: pests
Where to buy Cleistocactus strausii (silver torch)?
Basc Care for Cleistocactus strausii (silver torch)
Watering
You can water your succulent more than often in extreme conditions but make sure that the soil is completely dry before watering your succulent again.
One simple tip for you is that you can use some online apps to check the soil status before you go water your succulents. I would recommend the ThePlantsCheck app, it has some nice features there.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means winter. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "silver torch or wooly torch"
To ensure Cleistocactus strausii (silver torch) grows to its fullest potential, make sure it receives plenty of direct sunlight. Aim for six hours or more of full sun a day – the ideal place would be near a sunny window or outdoors in your garden. Monitor the leaves closely; if they become pale or soft, relocate the plant to a sunnier spot.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C).
When temperatures drop below freezing, it is important to take precautions to protect Cleistocactus strausii (silver torch) from the cold. Insulating and providing adequate drainage for the plant are key elements in helping it survive winter weather. Wind and sun exposure should also be minimized to prevent frost damage.
Any succulents in the group will need a medium space to grow. You can place your pot at your table or window. Since this plant needs more space than mini succulents, you should consider do not plant them together with other succulents/plants.
Propagation
One way to propagate Cleistocactus strausii (silver torch) is by cutting
Growing Cleistocactus strausii (silver torch) from seeds is an easy and economical way to produce more plants. Identify a healthy seed by its plumpness, dark color and slightly sticky texture. Once the potting mix has been pre-mixed with well-draining soil, sow the seeds evenly and press lightly into the surface. To ensure germination, keep the container in bright but indirect light and mist the soil gently with a spray bottle.
Toxicity
Cleistocactus strausii (silver torch) is not known to pose any significant health risks, as it is not considered to be toxic. However, it is best to keep the plant away from young children and pets, as they may ingest some of the parts of this plant that could contain toxins which can cause mild skin irritation.
Pests and Diseases
Cleistocactus strausii (silver torch) can be affected common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents such as mealybugs and Red spider mites.
If you do spot any of pest signs, you can treat your succulent using below methods.
- Mealybugs: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Red spider mites: Quarantine, clean your infected plants, treatment with a systemic insecticidal/soapy water.
Besides that, to prevent serious health issues from happening, keep your succulent in a well-ventilated area and check it regularly for any signs of pests or health problems.
