Golden Torch Cactus is a columnar cactus native to South America that has been embraced by southwest gardeners for its eye-catching sculptural qualities and ease of care. Its upright stems are bright green with 10-15 vertical ribs, and are covered in short, golden spines giving the stems a slight yellow hue. Like many cacti, they bloom at night for only about 10 hours, attracting night pollinators like moths and bats. The only things this cactus requires are well-draining soil, sun, and occasional deep watering. You provide the appropriate location, and either on their own or in clusters in different locations, these cacti will add interest to both formal desert gardens or natural-looking gardens to accent or focus attention on your entry, garden, or any low-maintenance landscape. Space 3-4 feet apart for optimal aesthetics, and combine with low-growing succulents for enhanced visual appeal. Surround them with boulders or gravel to evoke an authentic desert vibe. Popular landscape uses for these cacti include accents and focal points, background plantings, narrow and confined spaces, rock gardens, planters and containers.
