Also known as Rat-Tail Cactus
Rattail Cactus (Aporocactus flagelliformis) is a trailing cactus with thin, whip-like stems covered in fine spines, producing vibrant pink to red tubular flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, indirect sunlight
75% intensity
Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid intense afternoon sun
Allow soil to dry out between waterings
50% intensity
Reduce watering significantly in winter
Well-draining cactus mix
50% intensity
Average room temperatures
50% intensity
Prefers 18-25°C during the day, slightly cooler at night. Tolerates brief periods of lower temperatures in winter.
Outdoor, Indoor
50% intensity
Feed during growing season
50% intensity
Use diluted balanced liquid fertilizer monthly from spring to summer
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch, typically every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.
Reduce watering significantly in winter, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems.
Prune to control size, shape, and encourage branching. Remove dead, damaged, or leggy stems using clean, sharp scissors or a knife.
Pruning can be done anytime, but is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This also helps maintain a more compact form.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Take a 10-15 cm cutting from a healthy stem and allow it to callus over for a few days. Plant the callused end in a well-draining cactus or succulent mix.
Rooting typically occurs within a few weeks in warm conditions.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent potting mix. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the previous one.
Repot in spring before active growth begins. Handle with care due to its fragile stems.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Rattail Cactus (Aporocactus flagelliformis)
Where Rattail Cactus (Aporocactus flagelliformis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Aporocactus |
| Species | Aporocactus flagelliformis |
Similar in genus Aporocactus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
