Cleistocactus
Cleistocactushystrix

Family: Cactaceae (kak-TAY-see-ee)
Genus: Cleistocactus (Kly-stoh-KAK-tus)
Species: hystrix (HIS-triks)

Synonym:Loxanthocereus hystrix

Synonym:Loxanthocereus montanus

Category
Cactus and Succulents

Water Requirements
Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater

Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Sun to Partial Shade
Light Shade

Foliage

Foliage Color

Height
18-24 in. (45-60 cm)
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)
36-48 in. (90-120 cm)
4-6 ft. (1.2-1.8 m)

Spacing
12-15 in. (30-38 cm)
15-18 in. (38-45 cm)
18-24 in. (45-60 cm)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)

Where to Grow

Danger
Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling

Bloom Color
Red

Bloom Characteristics

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Mid Spring
Late Spring/Early Summer

Other details

Soil pH requirements

Patent Information

Propagation Methods
From woody stem cuttings
Allow cut surface to callous over before planting
From seed; direct sow after last frost

Seed Collecting
Bag seedheads to capture ripening seed
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds
Unblemished fruit must be significantly overripe before harvesting seed; clean and dry seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored