Cleistocactus winteri 'Erecta'

Cleistocactus winteri 'Erecta' is an exceptional variant of the popular Rat Tail cacti, prized for its unique upright growth habit. Also known as the Golden Rat Tail Cactus, this plant hails from Bolivia, specifically the Santa Cruz province, where it thrives at altitudes of 1400 to 1500 meters. Unlike its trailing relatives, Cleistocactus winteri 'Erecta' forms vertical columns, adding a striking architectural element to any indoor plant collection.

The stems of Cleistocactus winteri 'Erecta' can grow up to 90 centimetres high and 2 to 2.5 centimetres in diameter. These green shoots are adorned with bristly, golden spines that densely cover the surface, providing a stunning textural contrast. The plant's 16 to 17 ribs, dotted with closely spaced brown areoles, bear about 50 flexible, thin spines, with central spines reaching up to 10 millimetres in length.

In spring and summer, Cleistocactus winteri 'Erecta' produces beautiful salmon-pink flowers, each 4 to 6 centimetres long and 5 centimetres in diameter. These blossoms, with their orange-red bracts, are bent upwards, outwards, or upright, depending on the shoot's position. The flowers transition into small, barrel-shaped green to reddish-green fruits, 7 to 10 millimetres long, adding another layer of interest.

Cleistocactus winteri 'Erecta' is a low-maintenance, easy-care succulent that prefers bright, sunny positions. It thrives with regular watering during summer and needs to be kept dry in winter. This cactus can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, often producing multiple offshoots when cut. Its resilience and striking appearance make it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced plant enthusiasts looking to add a touch of exotic flair to their indoor gardens.