Cleistocactus samaipatanus
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Cleistocactus samaipatanus

Tier 2 Difficulty: easy Water: low Light: full_sun
Temperature
20–37 °C
0
Hardiness
Zone 9–11
Click count
34
Observations
74

Description

Source: leafsnap

Cleistocactus samaipatanus is a species of flowering plant in the family Cactaceae, native to Bolivia. Growing to 1.5 m (4.9 ft) tall, it has multiple long, narrow columnar green stems with pale gold spines. It grows vigorously with large, pinky-red flowers in summer. In cultivation in the UK, this plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit (confirmed 2017). However, as it does not tolerate temperatures below 0 °C (32 °F), it must be grown under glass, though it may be placed outside during the warm summer months.

Care Guide

💧 Water

Cleistocactus samaipatanus is a drought-tolerant plant that only requires thorough watering when the soil is completely dry. During the growing season, from spring to fall, water the plant once or twice a week. In winter, reduce watering to once a week. It's best to use rainwater or distilled water to prevent soil compaction. Make sure the water does not come into contact with the stem, as this can cause rotting.

☀️ Light Full sun

Originating in arid areas, Cleistocactus samaipatanus performs best in full sun, as its native habitat has intense sunlight and very little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, providing some flexibility in its growth.

Ideal: Full sun
🌡️ Temperature 20–37.8°C

Cleistocactus samaipatanus prefers warm conditions and needs higher temperatures during the growing season to stimulate growth and metabolism. It does well with plenty of sunlight, proper moisture, and good air circulation. However, it can be harmed by very low temperatures and by overwatering. It’s essential to maintain a balance and also to avoid extremes of excessive heat and overly dry conditions.

Ideal temperature: 20–37.8°C
💨 Humidity
Humidity:
🪴 Soil 0-0
Soil pH: 0-0
🌱 Fertilizer

Cleistocactus samaipatanus requires only light fertilizer applications once or twice a year during the growing season. Do not fertilize in winter or summer when it is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a few months after repotting before you start fertilizing. Feeding helps maintain healthy growth and encourages flowering.

🪴 Pot & Repot Every 3 years
Suggested frequency: Every 3 years
✂️ Pruning

Cleistocactus samaipatanus is a columnar cactus with striking red-orange flowers. To keep the plant healthy, perform minimal pruning in early spring, focusing on removing any dead stems. Always use sterilized tools to prevent infections. Be careful not to prune excessively, as the stems store water and support the plant’s overall health by allowing better light access.

🌿 Propagating
🐛 Diseases & pets
☠️ Toxicity

Characteristics

Plant Type
Succulent
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Cleistocactus
Family
Cactaceae
Hardiness Zone
9-11
Mature Height
91 cm
Mature Spread
61 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
Red
Flower Size
3.05 cm to 4.06 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall

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