This perennial cactus is erect with branches from the base with grey green stems that are up to 30mm (1?in) thick with up to 15 ribs. It is densely covered in whitish spines and the yellow-green tube-shaped flowers appear at night during summer.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Cleistocactus ritteri is naturally found in South America growing in Bolivia on dry rocky mountainous areas in very well drained moderately fertile gravelly soils in a semi-shaded to an open sunny position and is drought tolerant but frost tender.

This cactus is grown for its upright habit and is planted in small or arid gardens as a specimen in rockeries or pebbled garden bed. It is also used in patio pots in a sunny position and is suitable for coastal and inland regions establishing in 2 to 3 years from division. ID 2423

Cleistocactus(KLEES-toe-kak-tus)ritteri(writ-ter-i)

Cactaceae(kak-TAY-see-ee)