Scientific Name: Echinopsis spachiana
Common Name: Golden Torch Cactus
Origin: Native to the mountainous regions of Argentina and Bolivia
Type: Columnar cactus
The Golden Torch Cactus is a sun-worshipping marvel that brings a dash of desert elegance to any plant collection. Tall, slender, and ribbed with golden spines, this cactus grows upright like a fiery torch – hence the name! It can reach up to 6 feet tall in the right conditions, making it a striking architectural plant both indoors and out.
Famed for its dramatic moonlit blooms, the Golden Torch Cactus produces large, fragrant white flowers that bloom at night, creating a brief but magical floral spectacle. It’s drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and perfect for bright spaces where it can soak in plenty of sun.
Care Tips:
1. Let It Soak Up the Sun
Place your cactus where it can bask in full sun – ideally a south-facing window if indoors, or on a sunny balcony. It needs at least 6 hours of direct light daily to stay sturdy and upright. Mine started leaning like the Tower of Pisa until I moved it to the window seat – problem solved!
2. Water Sparingly (Seriously)
Stick to the soak-and-dry method: water deeply, then wait until the soil is completely dry before watering again. In summer, this might be every 10–14 days. In winter, it wants a desert holiday – water once a month or not at all.
3. Go for Gritty Soil
Use a well-draining cactus mix with sand or perlite added in. A soggy pot is this cactus’ worst enemy. I always say: if the soil clumps in your hand, it’s too moist for a torch cactus!
4. Keep It Cozy, But Not Too Cozy
The Golden Torch loves warmth (above 70°F/21°C) but can tolerate light frost if the soil is bone dry. Indoors, just make sure it’s not near drafty windows or air conditioners in winter.
5. Fertilize Lightly in Growing Season
A gentle feed twice per growing season (spring and mid-summer) with a diluted cactus fertilizer keeps it energized and ready to shoot up another glorious column. Avoid feeding in winter – it’s snooze season.
So, whether you’re a cactus newbie or a succulent sage, this glowing beauty fits right in – bringing sunshine, sculpture, and a little nighttime drama to your plant family. I keep this one on my front balcony and it grows, rather keenly, very quickly.
