The monkey tail cactus is one of the most popular houseplants in the world. It’s loved for its many beautiful and vibrant flowers and hanging ability.
It’s common to see this beautiful plant in many homes, especially in hanging containers. However, you can grow this lovely plant outdoors and on the ground. This lovely cactus plant can be confusing though. Some multiple species and cultivars use the name monkey tail. Sometimes the monkey tail cactus in this article is called the rattail cactus too!
So, what is a monkey tail cactus? How do you care for this beautiful hanging succulent? Follow along to learn more.
What is a Monkey Tail Cactus?
This lovely hanging cactus is native to Bolivia, however, the cacti we see in homes today is a cultivar with many differences. The scientific name for this beautiful plant is the Cleistocactus colademononis, however, it may still be listed as Hildewintera colademononis in stores. Interestingly, this plant is also called the golden rat tail. However, it’s not the same as the rat tail cactus, which has a similar appearance.
The monkey tail cactus is a columnar cactus that grows thick and large branches and stems. It can grow up to 35 inches high, but this growth is rare indoors. The stems are also capable of reaching 8.2 feet long. This plant is also best known for its many short golden hairy spines. These tiny spines cover the stems. Although the plant is known for its hanging and tangling abilities, it first grows upright.
Monkey tail cacti are native to Bolivia and the stems can grow up to 8.2 feet long.
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Colors of Monkey Tail Cactus
Monkey tail cacti are very colorful, especially the small and vibrant flowers they produce. The flowers are orchid-like and are usually pink and red. Some flowers are orange and pink. The stems and branches of the plant are green and vary in shade.
When Will My Monkey Tail Cactus Bloom
Not all monkey tail cacti bloom right away or every year. However, when they get ready to bloom, you’ll know. These beautiful plants produce small pink buds at the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The flowers open up in spring and summer, but only last a short while. This tiny plant also produces a small fruit.
Monkey tail cacti bloom during spring and summer.
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Caring for a Monkey Tail Cactus
Monkey cacti aren’t too hard to take care of, but if you don’t give the plant enough light water, or nutrients, it can get sick and die. Sadly, monkey cacti are susceptible to numerous pets and diseases, including root rot.
Down below are some great ways to take care of your monkey cacti, including how to propagate this beautiful plant.
Monkey cacti require the right amount of water and sunlight to thrive. They are vulnerable to many pests and diseases.
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Watering
How much water does a monkey tail plant need? This is tough to answer and requires balance. However, they are drought-tolerant and prefer light watering. You should only water your monkey tail succulent about once or twice a month. Even less during winter. When you water your plant, it’s important to ensure that the water seeps through the container. Well-draining soil and a container with holes help to reduce the chances of root rot.
Underwatering can also lead to diseases and pests. When the plant doesn’t have enough water, the leaves, branches, and stems become vulnerable. A sign that you haven’t watered your plant enough is that the roots grow outside of the soil, searching for moisture.
Monkey tail plants don’t need a lot of water. In the winter, you should only water your monkey tail cactus once.
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Sunlight
Just like water, light is an important factor when growing a beautiful monkey-tail cactus. This plant thrives with strong direct light. It grows very quickly outside, but you can grow this plant indoors by a window or with LED grow lights.
Interestingly, light plays a big role in growth, flowering, and the color of the plant. For example, if your monkey tail succulent is light green or yellow, this is a sign it requires more light. Also, when the plant gets more light in spring and summer, flower buds emerge. These strong plants can tolerate up to 14 hours of direct sunlight every day. These plants can also survive with indirect bright light. If you place this plant outdoors, you may need to water it more frequently or deeply.
Nutrition
Monkey tail cacti are like other succulents, they don’t require a lot of fertilizer, if any at all. You can get away without using one on your plant, but if you notice the plant is missing nutrients, it’s recommended to add a monthly fertilizer during its growing period in spring and summer. The added fertilizer can also help increase the number of buds. You can make your nutrient booster or purchase a low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer in the stores. Slow-releasing fertilizer can reduce the chances of shock.
Soil-Type
Without the right soil, your plant can suffer from many problems. Monkey tail cacti need well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and light. Some experts recommend maintaining your soil at a pH level between 5.5 to 6.5. Too much acidity can harm your cactus. Instead of purchasing a regular bag of potting soil, you’ll need to invest in succulent or cactus soil. This type of soil is grainy and typically made with pebbles or rocks.
On top of the soil, you can also add a layer of mulch to protect the roots. This is important if you live in a cooler region prone to frost.
Monkey rail plants like soil with a pH level between 5.5 to 6.5.
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Humidity
Although most cacti don’t like humidity and live in dry conditions, the monkey tail cactus is an exception. This plant’s natural habitat is slightly humid on the cliffs of Bolivia. A good amount of humidity for this plant is about 40% to 50%. However, indoor humidity is different. If your plant is in an enclosed space, increasing humidity can cause the development of mold and fungal infections.
How to Grow Monkey Tail Cacti from Seeds
While you can grow monkey tail cacti from seeds, it’s easier and faster to grow from cuttings. Seed propagation is a lot slower, but is a good option if your current monkey tail cacti are too small to take multiple cuttings. Cactus seeds are also weak. They are susceptible to sickness, including fungal infections. If you are going to grow the plant from seed, you’ll need to use new soil and sterilize the container. After you’ve prepared the soil and container, place the seed on top of the soil. Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid. This traps moisture inside and acts like a greenhouse. You should also add sawdust to make the soil lighter.
Too much sunlight and watering can kill the seedling and new roots. Instead of pouring water from a watering can, you can use a spray bottle to lightly mist the soil. It’s also important you don’t place the seedling in direct sunlight.
How to Propagate Monkey Tail Cactus
Another option to grow monkey tail cacti is to use stem cuttings. If you are going to take cuttings, use sterile and clean scissors or knives. You may need to sterilize after each cutting so you don’t accidentally transfer bacteria and pests.
Take a cutting that is at least 3 inches long. To increase your chances, choose multiple cuttings. Place the cuttings to dry on a flat surface. If you do this outdoors, cover the plant and keep the wound open. When the cut is dry and hard, place the cutting into a pot with cactus soil. Don’t water the plant for at least a week to help it form roots.
