Golden Torch Cactus
pilosocereus chrysostele
Also known as: ["Golden Torch","Candelabrum Cactus"]
Overview
A tall, columnar cactus with golden-yellow spines and nocturnal, white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Pilosocereus |
| Botanical Name: | Pilosocereus chrysostele |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, direct sunlight or outdoor in a rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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 or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of growth at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (4–6 hours daily); adjust to avoid scorching in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun; place indoors near south-facing window or in filtered outdoor light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse harsh sunlight; avoid shaded corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully 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; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm, stable conditions year-round.
Avoid drafty areas; maintain stable temps; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to prevent nutrient lock.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; allow cut end to callous for 1–2 days before planting.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut cleanly.
- Callous.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid (50–60%), bright indirect light with some air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent rot; keep cuttings out of direct sun; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems cleanly just above a node or junction; allow cut surfaces to callous before handling.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to encourage healthy growth; shape plant for aesthetic appeal.
Tools
Sterile pruning shears or sharp knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut cleanly; remove only dead/damaged growth; allow callusing.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure bottom drainage.
Method
Remove gently; trim roots if needed; place in slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and prevent root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root health; trim if necessary; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
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 deeply during active growing season (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to commercial potting mix; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purpling of stems; slow growth; bud drop; soft, mushy stems (cold) or shriveled, dry stems (heat).
Cold Stress
Stems become soft and discolored; growth halts; risk of root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pot with bubble wrap; reduce watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Stems shrivel or become brittle; leaves (if present) wilt; growth slows; risk of sunburn.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water early morning or late evening.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with stem.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPilosocereus chrysostele is not considered toxic to cats. No toxic effects have been reported in felines after ingestion of this plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPilosocereus chrysostele is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from ingesting this species.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPilosocereus chrysostele is not known to be toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Pilosocereus chrysostele?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does this cactus need full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can I grow this cactus indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors with sufficient bright light, but it prefers outdoor conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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