The Echinopsis spachiana, commonly known as the Torch Cactus or Golden Torch, is a columnar cactus valued for its appearance and night-blooming flowers. Native to Bolivia and western Argentina, this slow-growing plant features cylindrical stems that can reach significant heights, often branching from the base. Its distinct ribs are adorned with woolly areoles and yellowish spines that fade to gray with age. The Torch Cactus produces large, fragrant white flowers, up to 8 inches long and 6 inches in diameter, that open at night during spring or early summer, lasting only about a day. This cactus is straightforward to care for.
Essential Care Requirements
Light
The Torch Cactus thrives in full sun. When grown outdoors, direct sunlight promotes growth and flowering. For indoor cultivation, placing the plant in a south-facing window or under bright grow lights provides intensity. While it tolerates full sun, gradual acclimation is beneficial to prevent scorching or yellowing of the stems.
Water
Watering Echinopsis spachiana is important. It responds best to the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains, then allow the soil to dry completely before the next watering. This prevents root rot. During the active growing season in spring and summer, water every week to every other week. In cooler months, watering should be reduced or stopped entirely during dormancy.
Soil and Potting
A fast-draining, gritty soil mix is important for the Torch Cactus. Commercial cactus or succulent mixes are well-suited and often contain perlite, pumice, or coarse sand to enhance drainage. Good drainage prevents fungal problems and rot. Terracotta pots are preferred because their porous nature allows for better air circulation and moisture evaporation, aiding drainage.
Temperature and Humidity
Echinopsis spachiana prefers warm temperatures during its active growth period, above 70°F (21°C). While it tolerates cooler temperatures, down to 20°F (-6.7°C), it needs protection from prolonged freezing conditions to prevent tissue damage. This cactus is accustomed to arid environments and handles low humidity well. High humidity can contribute to fungal growth if coupled with excessive soil moisture.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing supports the Torch Cactus during its active growing season, from spring through summer. A balanced, diluted fertilizer formulated for cacti or succulents is appropriate. Apply fertilizer monthly or bi-monthly during this period to provide nutrients for growth and flowering. Avoid fertilizing during its dormant period in fall and winter, as this can stress the plant or lead to nutrient burn. Some growers use slow-release pellets to provide a consistent, low dose of nutrients.
Repotting Your Echinopsis spachiana
Repotting Echinopsis spachiana is necessary every two to three years, or when root-bound or the soil has degraded. The best time to repot is during the spring. When selecting a new pot, choose one slightly larger than the current one, with drainage holes. Terracotta pots are a good choice due to their breathability.
Use gloves or a folded newspaper to protect hands from spines. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, shaking off excess soil. Place fresh, well-draining cactus mix in the new pot, position the cactus, and fill around the roots, leaving space from the rim. Withhold water for about a week after repotting to allow damaged roots to heal and minimize rot risk.
Propagating Your Torch Cactus
Propagating Echinopsis spachiana is done through offsets, or “pups,” which form at the base. To remove an offset, use a clean, sharp knife and cut it close to the main stem. After removal, allow the cut end to “callus” or dry out for several days to weeks, forming a protective layer. Callusing prevents rot when planted.
Once the callus has formed, plant the offset in a pot filled with well-draining cactus or succulent soil. Initially, water sparingly or withhold water for a week or two to encourage root development and prevent rot. Propagation from seeds is also possible, but it is a slower process.
Winter Care and Encouraging Blooms
Winter care for Echinopsis spachiana is important to encourage blooms. This cactus requires a cool, dry dormancy period from fall through winter. During this time, reduce watering frequency to once a month or less, keeping the soil dry. Cease all fertilization during dormancy, as the plant is not actively growing.
Maintaining cooler temperatures, between 20°F and 50°F (-6.7°C and 10°C), supports this dormant phase. This period of rest, with reduced water and cooler temperatures, signals the development of flower buds in spring. Without proper dormancy, the plant may produce fewer or no flowers.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Overwatering is a common problem, leading to root rot. Symptoms include mushy stems and discoloration. To address this, improve soil drainage, reduce watering frequency, and ensure the pot has drainage holes. If the cactus appears shriveled or wrinkled, it indicates underwatering. A thorough watering after the soil dries can rehydrate the plant.
Scorching or yellowing of the stems can occur if exposed to too much direct sunlight without acclimation. Gradually introduce the plant to brighter conditions or provide partial shade during hot periods. A lack of blooms links to insufficient winter dormancy. A cool, dry rest in colder months stimulates spring flowering. Pests, such as mealybugs and spider mites, can affect the Torch Cactus. Manage with insecticidal soap or by dabbing affected areas with rubbing alcohol.