Its flowers are tubular and fairly large, about 2 inches wide.
Plant rat tail cactus in the spring so it has the entire growing season to get established.
flagelliformisis either lithophytic or epiphytic, meaning it grows on the ground or on larger structures such as trees.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
double-check you have a suitable location in your home where you don’t accidentally brush against its vicious spines.
This plant is fairly drought-tolerant and can survive long periods with little care.
Light
This is a cactus that thrives in desert conditions: bright, direct sunlight year-round.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Place it in a south- or west-facing window to receive direct sun.
Soil
Excellent drainage is key so choose a lightweight potting mixture.
Water
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil slightly moist.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Reduce watering in the fall, tapering it off as you move toward winter.
Regular room temperatures are just fine, and ideally the nighttime temperatures are between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, be very careful when handling the plant and double-check to wear protective cloves with long cuffs.
Claire Nila / Getty Images
Just like with pruning, protect your hands and forearms when propagating it.
Potting and Repotting
Rat tail cactus displays best when grown in a hanging basket.
Line the container withsphagnum mossor other organic material before filling it with cactus potting mix.
This cactus quickly uses nutrients, and repotting it will help it replenish.
the light requirements are the same during dormancy; the cactus needs bright light year-round.
As a result the cactus might look dull and/or have little white dots from the punctures.
These pests can be controlled withinsecticidal soaporneem oil.
Full, bright direct sunlight is essential for the cactus to produce flowers.
The cacti belong to different genera so they are botanically not closely related.
They have some similarities in their growth habit but the stems are different.
The flowers of the rat tail cactus do not have any noticeable fragrance.
venture to adjust the watering without overwatering the plant.
