Overview
Cleistocactus colademononis is a trailing cactus succulent in the genus Cleistocactus, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Cleistocactus colademononis grows best in full sun, and tolerates sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. It is a holder of the RHS Award of Garden Merit and drought resistant. Suggested uses include hanging basket and houseplants. It is native to Bolivia.
About
This trailing cactus features elongated, cylindrical stems that can reach lengths of up to 1 meter, adorned with a dense layer of white, hair-like spines. In the spring, it blooms with red or pink flowers measuring up to 5 centimeters in length. It thrives when cultivated in a hanging basket, making it ideal for a conservatory or temperate greenhouse setting.
About the genus
Cleistocactus consists of upright, column-like cacti characterized by ribbed, cylindrical stems that may branch over time. These plants are adorned with dense spines and produce tubular flowers.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cleistocactus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Cleistocactus colademononis size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent
- Habit
- Trailing
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.5-1 metres
- Time to full height
- 2-5 years
- Suggested uses
- Hanging basket, Houseplants
- Native to
- Bolivia
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cleistocactus colademononis
- Cultivation
- Under glass, grow in standard cactus compost in full light and with low humidity. In the growing season water moderately and apply a dilute low-nitrogen fertiliser monthly. Keep completely dry from mid-autumn to spring. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by stem cuttings in summer, or by seed sown in spring
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to root rots
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Cleistocactus colademononis?
Under glass, grow in standard cactus compost in full light and with low humidity. In the growing season water moderately and apply a dilute low-nitrogen fertiliser monthly. Keep completely dry from mid-autumn to spring. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information.
Where is the best place to plant Cleistocactus colademononis?
Cleistocactus colademononis prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cleistocactus colademononis need?
Cleistocactus colademononis grows best in sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How do I prune Cleistocactus colademononis?
No pruning required.
How big does Cleistocactus colademononis grow?
Cleistocactus colademononis reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.
Is Cleistocactus colademononis hardy in the UK?
Cleistocactus colademononis has a UK hardiness rating of H2.
How do I propagate Cleistocactus colademononis?
Propagate by stem cuttings in summer, or by seed sown in spring.