The rat's tail cactus is a plant that is fairly easy to care for and maintain, which enjoys it's matured life being housed within a hanging basket or container. These have very distinct stems that hang down similar to a mop upside down.
This cacti is an epiphytic plant which means within it's natural habitat it grows on another plant (tree), for support. The Rat's tail grows stems up to a few feet long, that hang and display brownish colored spines, which can be a bit sharp (do take care when handling). These stems are approximately 0.5 in/12.7mm --- 1 in/25.4mm thick. The flowers are a very attractive (2in - 4in / 5cm - 10cm wide) pink tubular type that usually bloom within spring for up to 5 days. These flowers will grow from any part of the stem and you can expect plenty of them.
It's advisable to water this plant frequently within the summer and much less winter time. Keeping the soil slightly moist is also advisable within the summer.
The rat tail cactus thrives on bright light, but not direct sunlight. It also enjoys the warmth of the summer sun while it sits within a shaded area. Some sunlight and shade is great.
These are propagated by stem cuttings early summer. When they are cut - you will find - letting them dry for a few days helps the process, because the wounds can heal.
Temperatures averaging 50°F/10°C - 75°F/23.8°C are ideal but not below 40°F/5°C and avoid frost.
