Matucana Peruvian Torch – Tr. Peruvianus

Seed grown, seeds were sourced from Matucana, Peru. This is a lovely older plant up for sale.

Peruvian Torch Cactus aka Echinopsis peruviana is a fast-growing columnar cactus native to the western slope of the Andes in Peru, between about 2,000 – 3,000 m (6,600 – 9,800 ft) above sea level. The plant is bluish-green in color, with frosted stems and 6-9 broadly rounded ribs. It has large, white flowers and can grow up to 3m – 6 m (9.8 ft – 19.7 ft) tall, with stems up to 8cm – 18 cm (3.1in – 7.1 in) in diameter. It is closely related to San Pedro Cactus (Trichocereus pachanoi), but much less common. It is similar in appearance, but has longer spines and has a darker colour, sometimes being glaucous. It grows much like San Pedro and is even more hardy and does exceptionally well in colder climates.

Growing Requirements:

Peruvian Torch are relatively easily grown in the UK, especially due to the fact that they do not require massive amounts of sunlight. As most cacti grown in the UK, they are best grown in a greenhouse or conservatory (grow tents are also used for younger plants), South facing is a distinct advantage.

Watering

Watering from Spring (April) to beginning of Autumn (End September). Depending on what kind of summer we get will depend on how frequent you need to water, but, less is better with cacti. During the winter months, little to no watering is required or the roots could rot (they do not like to be wet for long periods).

Substrate

In warmer climates, you could go for a more nutrient rich mixture (50% organic / 50% inorganic). But, in the UK, it is best to err more on the side of inorganic (60% – 70% inorganic) to ensure the pot is drained / dried quickly.