Upcoming Events: Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Plant Stake Stained Glass Workshop Sunday Sept. 27th @ 2pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm / Intro to Stained Glass October 3rd @ 2 pm
Monkey Tail Cactus is a distinctive trailing cactus prized for its long, cylindrical stems covered in dense, soft-looking white hairs. Young stems initially grow more upright before beginning to arch and cascade as they lengthen, eventually creating the shaggy, tail-like appearance that gives the plant its common name. Mature specimens can develop multiple long stems, making them especially impressive in hanging baskets or elevated planters.
The proper botanical name is Cleistocactus winteri subsp. colademononis, although it is also commonly listed as Cleistocactus colademononis. It is native to Bolivia, where it naturally grows on steep rocky surfaces. The dense white hairs help protect the stems from intense sunlight, but fine spines are also present beneath the fuzzy covering.
Monkey Tail Cactus does best in very bright light with several hours of direct sunlight. Strong light encourages dense white hair growth, sturdy stems, and better flowering. Indoors, place it near one of your brightest windows. Gradually acclimate plants to stronger direct sun if they have previously been grown under filtered light.
Allow the potting mix to dry thoroughly between waterings, then water deeply and allow all excess water to drain. During active spring and summer growth, Monkey Tail Cactus may appreciate somewhat more regular watering than many desert cacti, but its roots should never remain consistently wet. Reduce watering considerably during cooler periods of slower growth.
Use a very well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix in a container with excellent drainage. Adding pumice, perlite, lava rock, coarse sand, or other mineral amendments can improve drainage and airflow around the roots.
Monkey Tail Cactus prefers warm temperatures and low to moderate humidity with good airflow. Protect it from prolonged cold temperatures, particularly when the potting mix is wet. A cooler and drier winter rest can also help encourage flowering on mature plants.
This cactus develops a strong trailing and cascading growth habit, with mature stems capable of becoming several feet long. Established plants grown under favorable conditions can produce spectacular bright red to orange-red tubular flowers along the stems. Hanging baskets are ideal for allowing the stems to develop naturally without resting against surrounding surfaces.
Although its white hairs appear soft and fuzzy, fine spines are hidden within the covering. Handle the plant carefully and avoid grabbing the stems with bare hands.
Monkey Tail Cactus is not generally considered chemically toxic to cats or dogs, but its spines can cause painful injuries to the mouth, paws, skin, or eyes. Chewing or swallowing plant material may also cause gastrointestinal irritation. Keep it where pets and small children cannot easily reach the trailing stems.
Upcoming Events: Moss Art Thursday Sept. 24th @ 6pm / Plant Stake Stained Glass Workshop Sunday Sept. 27th @ 2pm / Moss Art Thursday Oct. 1st @ 6 pm / Intro to Stained Glass October 3rd @ 2 pm
