Aporocactus flagelliformis, commonly known as rat’s tail cactus, is a cactus native to Mexico and Central America.
This cactus is native to Mexico and Central America and does best in bright, indirect light.
If you are interested in growing Aporocactus flagelliformis, purchasing a young plant from a nursery or online retailer is best.
Some of the common household names of Aporocactus flagelliformis include:
- Rat tail cactus
- String of Bananas
- Chain Cactus
- Finger Cactus
- Zigzag Cactus
The chain cactus is a type of rat’s tail cactus that gets its name from the way its stems grow in a chain-like fashion.
It’s named a string of bananas cactus because of its long, banana-shaped stems.
The name finger cactus gets its name from how its stems look like fingers.
Quick Facts On Aporocactus Flagelliformis
- Family: Cactaceae
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Temperature: 50° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Use lukewarm water; Allow to dry out completely between waterings
- Fertilizer: Cactus fertilizer once a month during the growing season
- Propagation: Stem cuttings
- Common Problems: Aphids, mealybugs, scale, rot, root rot
Aporocactus Flagelliformis Care
Aporocactus Flagelliformis, also known as rat tail cactus, is an easy-to-care-for and low-maintenance succulent.
When it comes to caring for your Aporocactus Flagelliformis, there are a few things that you need to keep in mind.
What Does The Rat Tail Cactus Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The Aporocactus Flagelliformis is a climbing cactus that has green stems. The plant can grow from 3’ to 20’ feet tall, with its stems covered in spines.
Each stem is covered with small, spiny tubercles and has numerous small, white flowers bloom in the summer.
When Does The Rat Tail Cactus Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
Aporocactus Flagelliformis flowers in the late spring and early summer. The flowers are not fragrant.
The flowers are deep pink or red, and they bloom for about 2 weeks. After the flowers bloom, the plant produces small, red fruits that are edible but not very tasty.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The rat’s tail cactus does best in bright, indirect sunlight.
If the plant does not get enough light, it will become leggy, and the stems will be thinner. The stems will become red or yellow if the plant receives too much light.
The ideal temperature for this cactus is between 50° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Rat Tail Cactus?
Water the Aporocactus Flagelliformis when the soil is dry to the touch. Do not water the plant more than once a week, as too much water can cause root rot.
When watering, use lukewarm water and avoid getting the stems wet.
For feeding, fertilize the plant once a month with a cactus fertilizer during the growing season.
It is also essential to protect the plant from drafts and extreme temperatures.
What Is The Best Soil For Aporocactus Flagelliformis, And When Should You Transplant?
The best soil for the Aporocactus Flagelliformis is a cactus potting mix or a well-draining sandy soil.
The plant should be transplanted every 2 years in the springtime.
Does Aporocactus Flagelliformis Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
The Aporocactus Flagelliformis does not need special grooming or maintenance.
However, it is important to keep an eye on the plant and ensure it is not overwatered. Too much water can cause root rot.
How To Propagate A Rat’s Tail Cactus?
If you want to propagate your rat’s tail cactus, it’s actually quite easy to do.
You can propagate it by stem cuttings.
All you need is a sharp knife and a little bit of patience. Here’s how to get started:
- Cut a length of stem from the main plant. Make sure the stem has at least 2 to 3 nodes.
- Allow the cut end of the stem to callus over for a few days.
- Once the cut end has callused over, pot it up in a cactus potting mix or well-draining sandy soil.
- Keep the soil moist but not wet, and wait for new growth to appear. This can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
- Once the plant has rooted, and new growth appears, begin watering it as you would a mature plant.
Aporocactus Flagelliformis Pests And Diseases
Aporocactus flagelliformis is susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites.
Mealybugs can be controlled with regular applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Spider mites can be difficult to control and may require repeated treatments with an insecticide.
Aporocactus flagelliformis is also susceptible to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil.
Therefore, the plant should only be watered when the soil is dry to the touch and the pot has good drainage holes.
Removing any affected roots and changing the potting mix is vital if root rot occurs.
Aporocactus flagelliformis is a fast-growing cactus and must be repotted every 1 to 2 years.
Use a well-draining potting mix and a pot that is only slightly larger than the plant. After repotting, water the plant sparingly for a few weeks to allow the roots to adjust.
Suggested Uses for Rat’s Tail Cactus
Aporocactus Flagelliformis can be used as a decorative plant in your home. They can be grown in a pot or garden and reach heights of up to three feet.
In addition, these cacti are native to Mexico and can tolerate some neglect, making them easy to care for.
Aporocactus Flagelliformis is perfect for those new to gardening or those who do not have much time to dedicate to caring for their plants.
These cacti are also ideal for brightening a room or patio with vibrant colors.
If you are looking for a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for, Aporocactus Flagelliformis is the perfect plant!