Red Torch Cactus
cleistocactus baumannii
Also known as: ["Red Torch","Cleistocereus baumannii"]
Overview
A columnar cactus native to South America, known for its vibrant red flowers and spiny stems.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","deer resistant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Cleistocactus |
| Botanical Name: | Cleistocactus baumannii |
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 waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when stems become overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or diseased parts unless reshaping is required.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or filtered sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place in east-facing windows indoors or in dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
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 overhead watering to prevent rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soils; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, dry conditions; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; remove healthy segments, let them callus, then plant in well-draining soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after planting.
- Increase humidity if needed.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Cactus mix or perlite and sand mixture for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Do not overwater cuttings; provide gentle warmth; avoid direct sun until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly with sharp tools; allow cuts to callus before handling or repotting.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or a knife.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove only necessary stems; allow cuts to dry.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; ensure good drainage to prevent rot.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting the stem; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring-summer) when soil is dry to the touch; reduce frequency in fall and cease watering in winter unless soil is extremely dry.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, stunted growth, or soft stems in cold; wilting, sunburn, or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and increase susceptibility to root rot; prolonged cold can damage cellular structures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or scorching of the epidermis; may lead to wilting or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThe plant is not toxic upon ingestion, but the spines can pose a physical hazard to cats if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicWhile ingestion of the plant material is generally non-toxic, the spines may cause mechanical injury to the oral cavity or digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThe spines of Cleistocactus baumannii can cause mechanical injury 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 often should I water Cleistocactus baumannii?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does this cactus require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Why are the stems turning yellow?
A: Yellowing may indicate overwatering or poor drainage; ensure the plant is not sitting in water.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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