Cleistocactus Species, Silver Torch, Snow Pole, Wooly Torch
Cleistocactusstrausii

Family: Cactaceae (kak-TAY-see-ee)
Genus: Cleistocactus (Kly-stoh-KAK-tus)
Species: strausii

Synonym:Cleistocactus strausii

Category

Cactus and Succulents

Water Requirements

Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping

Sun Exposure

Full Sun

Foliage

Succulent

Foliage Color

Unknown

Height

4-6 ft. (1.2-1.8 m)
6-8 ft. (1.8-2.4 m)

Spacing

3-6 in. (7-15 cm)
6-9 in. (15-22 cm)

Hardiness

USDA Zone 9a: to -6.6 °C (20 °F)
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)

Where to Grow

Unknown

Danger

Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling

Bloom Color

Red

Bloom Characteristics

Unknown

Bloom Size

Unknown

Bloom Time

Blooms repeatedly

Other details

Unknown

Soil pH requirements

6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)

Patent Information

Non-patented

Propagation Methods

From woody stem cuttings
Allow cut surface to callous over before planting
From seed; direct sow after last frost

Seed Collecting

Bag seedheads to capture ripening seed
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds
Unblemished fruit must be significantly overripe before harvesting seed; clean and dry seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored