Attention Gardeners, are you looking for a hardy plant that will make your garden stand out? Look no further than the Torch cactus, also known as Trichocereus grandiflorus (previously known as Echinopsis huascha) a vibrant hybrid of the Trichocereus genus! It is also known as the red torch cactus or the Desert blooming jewel, for its stunning floral display that blooms in midwinter when most other plants do not. 

Trichocereus grandiflorus is not the only visually appealing torch cactus; there is also, the silver torch cactus with its silver-grey cacti, the Bolivian Torch Cactus with brilliant flowers, the Golden Torch Cactus with a golden color, the Blue Torch Cactus with its tall columnar blue stems and spines. Regardless of their differences, all these torch cacti are eye-catching additions to any cactus collection.

This torch cactus can grow up to 2 feet tall and 12 inches wide at maturity, sprouting branches near its base it commands attention and admiration from all who lay eyes upon it. This columnar cactus has a bluish-green stem that is covered in numerous spines. 

Its striking funnel-shaped blooms are a sight to behold, painting the arid surroundings with bursts of fiery colors. While red is the most common hue for these floral gems, you may be lucky enough to stumble upon shades of light pink, yellow, or orange in certain pockets of their natural habitat. The Trichocereus grandiflorus is a very similar plant to the orchid cactus in terms of showy flowers.

These torch cacti are quite an awesome sight to behold with their brilliant flowers open on each stem. This torch cactus is not toxic to humans or pets.  It can be grown in containers and is often used as a focal point in a room or on a patio. 

Watering Needs

The torch cactus is a drought-tolerant plant that requires minimal watering. During its active growth of the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall, the Trichocereus grandiflorus can be watered once in 2-3 weeks or whenever the soil feels completely dry. It is important to avoid overwatering the torch cactus, as this can lead to root rot. In the winter months, when it is dormant, it can be watered even less frequently, as it is not actively growing. 

When watering the Trichocereus grandiflorus, it is important to use a well-draining soil mix and a pot with adequate drainage and holes. This will help prevent excess water from accumulating in the soil and causing root rot. Overall, the torch cactus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal watering, making it a great choice for busy gardeners or those who live in dry climates. 

Light Requirements

The torch cactus requires bright full sunlight to thrive. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it is important to protect it from direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day. If the Trichocereus cactus is exposed to too much direct sunlight, it can become sunburned and damaged. 

When grown indoors, Trichocerus grandiflorus can be placed a few feet away from a south-facing window that receives bright but indirect light. It is important to rotate them occasionally to ensure that all sides receive adequate bright light throughout. If it is not receiving enough bright light, it may become leggy and stretched out. If this occurs, the Trichocereus cactus can be moved to a location with brighter light or supplemented with artificial light. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

The torch cactus requires a well-draining cactus soil mix that is specifically formulated for cacti. This type of soil mix typically contains a high proportion of sand or perlite, which helps to improve drainage and prevent water from accumulating around the roots. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally, use our specialized cactus potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your cactus to thrive. 

When it comes to fertilizing the Trichocereus grandiflorus, it is important to use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for cacti. This type of fertilizer typically contains a high proportion of potassium and phosphorus, which can help to promote healthy growth and flowering. It is important to avoid using a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, as this can cause the grandiflorus cactus to become leggy and stretched out. The torch cactus should be fertilized once a year during the growing season in the spring. 

Hardiness Zone & More

The torch cactus is a mild-frost hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. It is native to the Sonoran Desert, which has hot, dry summers and mild winters. It is hardy to USDA zones 8-11, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 15 F. However, it is important to protect your Trichocereus grandiflorus from prolonged frost, as this can cause damage or even kill the cactus. 

In terms of humidity, it prefers low humidity levels. It can tolerate dry air and is not prone to fungal diseases or other issues that can arise in humid environments. Overall, it is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels, making it a great choice for gardeners in a variety of climates. 

Give this Tricocereus grandiflorus - torch cactus a try if you're looking for an easy plant to care for!