Golden Torch Cactus
cleistocactus winteri
Also known as: ["Golden Torch","Winter's Cactus"]
Overview
A columnar cactus with golden-yellow spines and bright red flowers, native to Bolivia.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Cleistocactus |
| Botanical Name: | Cleistocactus winteri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, indirect light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of stems if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of direct morning sun or filtered light; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon sun; ideal for indoor bright spots with indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty soil mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature
Prefers 18–24°C (64–75°F); tolerates mild frost (down to -5°C or 23°F) if dry; avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during growing season; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply after watering to avoid root damage.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; remove healthy segments and allow them to callus before planting.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem segment.
- Let callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 20–24°C (68–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
2–4 weeks for roots to develop; 3–6 months to establish a mature plant.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining soil mix, small pots.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use bottom heat to speed up rooting; avoid overwatering new cuttings.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly just above a node or junction; wear gloves to avoid spines.
Pruning Plan
Prune to control size, remove dead or damaged stems, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove damaged stems; wear protection.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–5 cm (1–2 inches) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh cactus mix with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh cactus soil; ensure drainage holes; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring/summer) every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency to monthly in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling of stems in cold; wilting or sunburn spots in excessive heat; bud drop or stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet; can lead to tissue damage in prolonged freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry before cold spells; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below -5°C.
Hot Stress
Can cause dehydration, wilting, or sunburn; may lead to reduced flowering or stem damage.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but ensure proper drainage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus-specific fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly in growing season; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCleistocactus winteri is not toxic to cats. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous texture, but no toxic effects are expected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCleistocactus winteri is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous texture, but no toxic effects are expected.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThe spines of Cleistocactus winteri can cause mechanical irritation upon contact, but the plant itself does not produce toxic compounds harmful to humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much sunlight does Cleistocactus winteri need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Is Cleistocactus winteri toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Cleistocactus winteri?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter dormancy.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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