Overview
Cleistocactus fieldianus is a columnar upright, trailing cactus succulent in the genus Cleistocactus, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cleistocactus fieldianus grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include hanging basket, houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Cleistocactus fieldianus is a cultivar of the Cleistocactus genus, which comprises upright, column-like cacti with ribbed, cylindrical stems that may branch over time. This evergreen succulent features dense spines and tubular flowers, typical of the genus. It thrives in full sun and well-drained, gritty soil, preferring a sheltered position with a south, east, or west-facing aspect. Suitable for hanging baskets, houseplants, and conservatories, it is hardy to UK zone H2 and is best propagated by stem cuttings or seed, with summer being its season of interest.
About the genus
Cleistocactus is a genus of flowering plants in the cactus family Cactaceae, native to mountainous areas - to 3,000 m (9,843 ft) - of South America. The name comes from the Greek kleistos meaning closed because the flowers hardly open.
Wikipedia contributors, "Cleistocactus", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cleistocactus
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Cleistocactus
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Cleistocactus fieldianus size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent
- Habit
- Columnar upright, Trailing
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Hanging basket, Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Cleistocactus fieldianus
- Propagation
- Stem cuttings, Seed
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Root rots
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Cleistocactus fieldianus?
Cleistocactus fieldianus prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Cleistocactus fieldianus need?
Cleistocactus fieldianus grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Cleistocactus fieldianus hardy in the UK?
Cleistocactus fieldianus has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Cleistocactus fieldianus?
Stem cuttings, Seed.