How to Care for Cleistocactus strausii (Silver Torch Cactus)

Korean name: 클레이스토칵투스

Cleistocactus strausii (Silver Torch Cactus) photo

A cylindrical cactus covered with soft, white, woolly spines resembling white cotton. It grows tall and upright, sometimes producing small red flowers when young. It is easy to care for and suitable for beginners.

Key facts

Category: Cactus
Difficulty: Easy
Where to keep: indoors
Native to: Bolivia, Argentina
Growth rate: Moderate
Pets: Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
Traits: beginner-friendly, silver spines, drought tolerant, cylindrical, low cold tolerance
Also known as: Silver Torch Cactus, Woolly Torch Cactus

Care Guide

Light: Prefers bright direct sunlight.
Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry.
Soil: Use well-draining cactus soil.
Humidity: Prefers dry conditions.
Temperature: 10~30°C
Fertilizer: Apply diluted cactus fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to fall).

Common questions

How often should you water Cleistocactus strausii?

Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. Roughly every 14 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Cleistocactus strausii?

Light: Prefers bright direct sunlight. You can grow it indoors. Soil: Use well-draining cactus soil.

Is Cleistocactus strausii safe around pets?

Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.

Is Cleistocactus strausii good for beginners?

Difficulty: Easy. It is forgiving enough for a first plant. Temperature: 10~30°C. Humidity: Prefers dry conditions. Fertiliser: Apply diluted cactus fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to fall).