Cleistocactus strausii, commonly called silver torch, is a columnar perennial flowering cactus plant in the Cactaceae family. Cleistocactus strausii is native to the mountainous regions of Bolivia. The plant can reach up to 9 feet in height at maturity with a diameter of only 2.5 inches wide. Cleistocactus strausii has many ribs parallel to its stem which are covered in hair like spines that are silver white in color, giving this plant its common name. Deep magenta colored flowers bloom from the sides of the plants ribs during spring and summer which measure about 3 inches tall and are tubular and narrow. C. strausii is grown as an ornamental plant for its unique hair covered stems and high contrasting flowers. Full sun to partial shade and well draining soil is ideal. Water adequately during summer and hot periods and lessen or cease watering during winter. USDA plant hardiness zone 9a-10b.
Cleistocactus strausii seeds require consistent moisture and humidity to germinate, but soil should not be soaking wet. Cloning boxes, ziplock bags, and other containers that retain moisture are ideal to store sown pots. Use a well draining sterilized soil mix. Seeds should be sown on top of potting mixture and not covered. Germinating pots should be kept indoors out of extreme light and heat. Ideal germination temperatures range from 75°F to 85°F. Germination typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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All packages will be shipped with basic customs information such as; HS codes, VAT numbers, and properly labeled contents. Unfortunately, The Garden of Set is unable to provide phytosanitary certificates for orders at this time. It is the buyer’s responsibility to know local laws regarding the import of plants, seeds, and plant products into their country. It is also up to the buyer to provide any other customs forms or information required to import plants into their country. If packages get stopped by customs, The Garden of Set will not be able to provide a refund for the purchase. Most of the time packages make it to their destinations just fine, this is for the small minority of packages that get stopped without having all the proper customs information required by the country of import. Purchase at your own discretion.