Origin
The Cleistocactus icosagonus, also known as Chala or Totoa, is a species of cactus that is native to South America, specifically to Bolivia and Argentina. It can be found growing at altitudes of up to 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level in rocky terrain and sandy soils.
Common Names
The Cleistocactus icosagonus is commonly known as the Totoa cactus, and in Bolivia, it is called Chala. It is also sometimes called the Star cactus, due to the shape of the plant and the arrangement of its spines.
Uses
The Cleistocactus icosagonus is not commonly used for medicinal purposes, but it is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and greenhouses. Its unique star shape and bright red-orange flowers make it an attractive addition to any collection of cacti and succulents.
General Appearance
The Cleistocactus icosagonus is a columnar cactus that can grow up to 4 meters (13 feet) tall. It has 10 to 14 ribs that are covered in prominent areoles, from which emerge 8 to 10 radial spines that are up to 5 centimeters (2 inches) long. In addition, there are 1 or 2 central spines that can be up to 10 centimeters (4 inches) long.
During the summer, the Cleistocactus icosagonus produces bright red-orange flowers that are up to 5 centimeters (2 inches) long. The flowers are tubular in shape and are pollinated by hummingbirds in their native habitat. The fruit of the plant is a small, red, spherical berry that contains small black seeds.
The Cleistocactus icosagonus is a hardy plant that requires little water and can tolerate high temperatures. It prefers well-draining soil and should be planted in full sun or light shade.
Light Requirement
The Cleistocactus icosagonus (Kunth) F.A.C. Weber prefers bright light and direct sunlight. It can thrive in partial shade for a short period, but consistent shade can negatively impact its growth. Therefore, it is ideal to place the Cleistocactus icosagonus in a bright area with no obstacles for sunlight to reach it.
Temperature Requirement
The plant thrives in warm temperatures, ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C) during the day, and a temperature range of 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C) at night. It can handle temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C) during the winter, but temperatures below that will harm the plant.
Soil Requirement
The Cleistocactus icosagonus plant prefers a well-draining soil mix. You can use cactus soil or make a mix with sandy loam and perlite in a 1:1 ratio. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, ranging between 6.0 to 7.0. It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, which can lead to root rot. The soil should be moist but not soggy. Therefore, it is crucial to let the soil dry out before watering again.
Cultivation Methods
Cleistocactus icosagonus is a cactus species that is easy to cultivate, making it ideal for beginners. It thrives in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers bright, direct sunlight, and it can grow up to four feet tall. It is best to plant the cactus in a small pot and move it to a larger container as it grows. During the winter season, growers should keep the cactus in a dry, warm environment to promote dormancy.
Watering Needs
Cleistocactus icosagonus requires careful attention when it comes to water. During the summer, it should be watered once a week, while in the winter, it should be kept dry. Overwatering can be fatal to the plant. Water should be applied directly to the soil, and the plant should be left to dry before the next watering. If soil is still moist, it is advisable to avoid watering and wait until the soil dries up.
Fertilization
Nutrient-rich soil is essential for Cleistocactus icosagonus growth. The cactus should be fertilized every two months, using a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen but high in potassium and phosphorus. A balanced fertilizer diluted in half is also a good choice.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of cultivating a healthy and aesthetically pleasing Cleistocactus icosagonus. The plant should be pruned during its growing season, which occurs in the summer. Pruning helps to control the size and shape of the cactus while also promoting new growth. Pruning should be done using a sharp knife or scissors, and the cut should be made just above a node or at the base of the stem.
Propagation of Cleistocactus icosagonus
Cleistocactus icosagonus can be propagated by several methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and offsets. Each method requires specific techniques to ensure successful propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for Cleistocactus icosagonus. The seeds of this plant are relatively easy to germinate, and they can produce new plants that are genetically diverse from the parent plant. To propagate the plant from seeds, collect mature fruits directly from the plant and extract the seeds carefully. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep it moist. Germination will occur in two to three weeks in warm temperatures. Once the new growth has developed, transplant the seedlings to their permanent location.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Cleistocactus icosagonus can also be done by stem cuttings. To propagate the plant using stem cuttings, cut a healthy stem from the parent plant, allowing it to dry for several days in a shaded place. Once the cutting has developed a callus, insert it into well-draining soil and water it sparingly. The new growth will emerge in a matter of weeks, and once it has established itself, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Offsets
Cleistocactus icosagonus is known to produce offsets, which can be separated from the parent plant and propagated. Carefully separate the offsets using a sharp, sterile tool and plant them immediately in a well-draining soil mix. Keep them moist, but do not overwater. Once these offsets have established, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management
Cleistocactus icosagonus is generally robust and disease-resistant, but several different types of fungal and bacterial infections can harm the plant.
Cacti are prone to rotting if their soil is kept too moist, so it is essential to avoid overwatering. Root rot caused by fungi such as Fusarium can be treated by removing affected roots entirely and repotting in fresh soil and a clean pot, taking care not to water the plant for several days after repotting. Avoid watering the plant on the foliage as well.
Another common disease that affects Cleistocactus icosagonus is powdery mildew, which appears as a white or grayish powder on the plant's leaves. This disease can be treated by removing as much of the infected plant as possible and spraying the remaining plant with a fungicidal spray. Air circulation, good hygiene, and proper sunlight exposure can help prevent powdery mildew from spreading.
Pest Management
Cleistocactus icosagonus is relatively free from pests, but there are several pests that may attack the plant.
Spider mites can damage and kill Cleistocactus icosagonus by sucking the sap from leaves. The best way to control spider mites is to wash the plant with a strong jet of water and applying an insecticidal soap. Regularly dusting the plant prevents spider mites from spreading.
Scale insects can also infest Cleistocactus icosagonus and feed on its sap, causing the leaves to discolour. The best way to control scale insects is to remove the infested plant parts and spray the remaining plant with a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Maintaining optimal growing conditions and avoiding over-fertilizing the plant can help prevent scale infestations.
Maintaining good sanitation practices, providing adequate light and nutrition, and avoiding mechanical damage are essential for preventing diseases and pests in Cleistocactus icosagonus. Regularly inspecting the plant and observing changes in the plant's color and growth habit can help detect problems early and facilitate the necessary treatment.
