Plants in genus cleistocactus
Cleistocactus winteri
Cleistocactus winteri, also known as the Golden Rat Tail, is a columnar cactus native to Bolivia, forming tangled mounds with green shoots and golden spines. It blooms with salmon-pink flowers in spring and summer, requiring bright, filtered light and well-draining soil. This drought-tolerant cactus is ideal for hanging baskets and pots.
Cleistocactus samaipatanus
Cleistocactus samaipatanus is a cactus native to Bolivia, growing up to 5 feet tall with pale gold spines and pinky-red flowers in summer. It forms branched groups from the base and produces small, spherical fruits. This species is listed as 'Least Concern' on the IUCN Red List.
Cleistocactus winteri ssp. colademono
Cleistocactus winteri ssp. colademono is a perennial succulent from the Americas, known for its long, supple stems with soft spines that resemble primate appendages. This lithophyte thrives in bright, indirect sunlight and tolerates some full sun, requiring weekly watering in spring and summer. It stores water in its stems for fall and winter, making it drought-tolerant. The plant's unique form and adaptability to various light conditions make it a fascinating addition to cactus collections.
Cleistocactus strausii 'Cristata'
Cleistocactus strausii 'Cristata', also known as the crested silver torch cactus, is a columnar cactus native to South America, reaching heights of 3 to 10 feet. It is winter dormant and slow-growing, producing bright-red, tube-shaped flowers in summer. This drought-tolerant cactus prefers full sun and well-draining soil, making it ideal for xeriscaping. Its unique form and vibrant blooms add architectural interest to gardens, while its resilience makes it a low-maintenance choice for cactus enthusiasts.
Cleistocactus strausii
Cleistocactus strausii, native to the Americas, is a versatile cactus that thrives in dry, arid climates. It requires minimal watering, about once every 2-3 weeks, and prefers ample light with well-draining soil. This drought-tolerant plant is suitable for both indoor and outdoor spaces.
Cleistocactus colademononis
This plant is a trailing cactus native to Bolivia and Argentina, known for its long, slender stems covered in soft, white fuzzy spines. It produces bright red to orange tubular flowers in late spring or early summer. The cactus prefers well-draining soil, bright but indirect light indoors, and full sun outdoors. It is suitable for USDA zones 9-11 and is not frost-tolerant, thriving in dry air and low humidity.