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Cactus Succulent

Echinopsis spachiana

golden column

A multi-stemmed, shrubby cactus, up to around 2m high. Cylindrical, ribbed dark green stems are produced from the base, with yellow areoles fading to grey, and clusters of yellow-brown spines. Large, nocturnal white flowers are produced in midsummer

Other common names
white torch cactus
torch cactus
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green White
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Cactaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Echinopsis can have spherical or cylindrical, heavily ribbed and spiny stems, with funnel-shaped flowers in spring or summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Bolivia to Argentina

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in a free draining cactus mix in full light, water freely while in growth and keep dry in winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for more advice

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown at 21°C (70°F) in spring, or by division, removing offsets in spring or summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to mealybugs

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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