Trichocereus spachianus (Golden Torch Cereus, Torch Cactus, White Torch Cactus)


Botanical Information

FamilyCactaceae
GenusTrichocereus
Speciesspachianus
SynonymsEchinopsis spachiana, Cereus spachianus, Echinocereus spachianus, Trichocereus spachianus
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals
OriginWestern Argentina and Bolivia.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone8b - 10b
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH2 - H4
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-9.4 - 10
Temperature (°F)15 - 50
Flowering PeriodMay

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionMulti-stemmed columnar cactus that is at first simple and later profusely branching at the base with branches ascending parallel with the main stem.
PropagationBy seeds and by cuttings in summer.
CultivationA decorative, frost hardy cactus easily found in cultivation and grows virtually anywhere. It is a species that offers no cultivation difficulties. It can be overwintered outdoors if sheltered from rain and severe frosts. Repot in spring, and should be repotted every other year. Let the soil dry out between waterings. Keep in well drained, more acidic soils.
Notable SpecimensCentennial Conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
Bark/Stem DescriptionStem is upright up to about 2 m tall, but usually smaller, 5 to 6 cm in diameter, columnar. 10 to 15 ribs that are obtuse and rounded. Areoles are about 1 cm apart, large, covered with curly wool. 8 to 10 radial spines, 6 mm to 1 cm long, spreading, stiff, sharp. 1 to 3 central spines that are 12 mm long, stronger and longer than the radials.
Flower DescriptionNocturnal, about 20 cm long and 15 cm in diameter lasting about 24 hours from one sunset to the following one.
Colour DescriptionAreoles are covered with yellow wool, which turns to white or grey as it ages. Spines are amber-yellow to brown, central spines are yellow, and all spines later become grey. Flowers are white.

Photographs