Rat's Tail Cactus

Rat's Tail Cactus Care

Aporocactus flagelliformis

What is the plant

Rat’s tail cactus received the name for its distinctive shoots that resemble rat’s tails. This trouble-free succulent is loved by plant parents worldwide for its odd looks. However, if you’re afraid of rats, this exotic greenie can scare you in the dark for sure, so select the spot for it wisely.

Native to Mexico, this cactus shoots trailing green stems that can reach 6 feet (2 m) length in maturity. The ones growing indoors are much smaller though.
But green is not the only color you’ll see: when the stems age, they turn beige. And its blooms, red-violet in most cases, can sometimes turn out to be pink or orange. The flowering period is in spring and early summer, but each bloom only lasts a few days.

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Humidity

High

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

7°C - 10°C

Hardiness zone

10a - 11

Difficulty

Easy

How to Care for the Plant

Water
In summer, water the cactus regularly to keep the soil a bit moist. In fall and spring, water it less often. This cactus doesn’t generally need water during the dormancy period, but you can water it rarely if the soil feels completely dry.
Pruning
You can remove dead stems, flowers, and diseased parts of the plant. Other than that, your cactus doesn’t need pruning. Use protective gloves to avoid hurting your hands.
Fertilizer
A liquid fertilizer diluted to mild strength is what your lovely cactus needs in the hot summer months. Don’t apply fertilizer in winter.

Disease diagnosis

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Sunlight
Bright and direct sunlight is best for this desert plant. Place it on a southern windowsill to see your cactus thrive!
Soil
Lightweight succulent potting mixture will work. Keep the drainage in mind.
Propagation
It’s very easy to get baby cactuses by cutting. Chop the 5 inch (12 cm) stem off the plant and let it dry in the fresh air for a couple of days. Fill your pot with a succulent mix, make a hole and insert the cut end of the stem so that it’s entirely covered with soil. Put it in a sunny place, keep the soil mildly humid, and it should root in a couple of weeks!

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Temperature
It’s a very resistant cactus that can grow well in temperatures ranging from 50°F (10°C) to 80°F (27°C). Room temperatures are perfect. Never expose it to frost though.
Container
Hanging baskets and pots fit this plant the best. Your container should have good drainage.
Fun fact
This fact is not so fun, but still quite interesting: the plant is considered endangered in Mexico. In fact, you can see it at people’s homes more often than in its native land.