Echinopsis spachianaGolden Torch

The Echinopsis spachiana, commonly known as Golden Torch, is a striking columnar cactus native to Argentina. Renowned for its upright growth habit and golden spines, it can grow up to 2 to 3 metres tall. During summer, it produces large, fragrant, white flowers that bloom at night, adding dramatic beauty to arid and desert-inspired landscapes.

Hardy and drought-tolerant, the Golden Torch is perfect for low-maintenance gardens, rockeries, or as a feature plant in xeriscaping projects.

Specifications

• Height2 to 3 metres
• Width0.3 to 0.6 metres
• Native toArgentina
• FoliageRibbed, cylindrical green stems adorned with golden-yellow spines
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained, sandy, or gravelly soils; tolerates nutrient-poor conditions
• LightFull sun to light shade
• WaterLow; highly drought-tolerant once established
• ClimateThrives in arid, subtropical, and Mediterranean regions

Additional Features

• FlowersLarge, fragrant white blooms in summer; typically nocturnal
• UsesIdeal for feature planting, xeriscaping, rockeries, and container gardens
• SpacingPlant 1 to 1.5 metres apart for individual impact or grouped displays
• Low MaintenanceRequires minimal care; water sparingly and avoid overwatering
• Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free with proper care
• Drought TolerancePerfect for water-wise gardens and desert landscapes
• Seasonal AppealBold spines and occasional blooms offer year-round interest

The Golden Torch cactus is a resilient and visually striking plant, perfect for adding vertical interest and desert-inspired elegance to gardens and landscapes.