Succulents

Silver Torch Cactus — Cleistocactus strausii

Covered from base to crown in a dense coat of fine white bristles, the Silver Torch Cactus looks like it was spun from moonlight. Native to the high mountain valleys of Bolivia and Argentina, Cleistocactus strausii is one of the most elegant and distinctive columnar cacti in the world — a tall, slender silver column that catches the light like no other plant in your collection.

As it matures, it develops a glorious fluffy white crown that gives it an almost magical, cloud-like appearance. And when it finally blooms, narrow tubular red flowers emerge from the woolly top — a stunning contrast of crimson against silver that stops people in their tracks. It's a slow-burn beauty that just keeps getting better.

Care Guide

• Light: Full sun to bright direct light — the more sun, the denser and more silver the spines become
• Water: Water moderately in the growing season; allow soil to dry between waterings. Water sparingly in winter
• Soil: Well-draining cactus mix is essential
• Temperature: Tolerates cool temperatures well; can handle light frost when dry
• Growth: Slow but steady columnar grower — patience is richly rewarded
• Blooms: Tubular red flowers appear on mature plants, emerging from the woolly crown

Ethereal, architectural, and breathtaking. The Silver Torch Cactus is the kind of plant that makes a collection look truly curated — a living sculpture that glows.