What Is a Rat-Tail Cactus?
Disocactus flagelliformis, or rat-tail cactus, is a species of cacti in the Cactaceae family. It is native to Mexico, but is cultivated throughout Central and South America. The rat-tail cactus’s most recognizable characteristic is its long spiny stems that hang from it like dreadlocks. This easy-to-grow species of cacti can be planted directly in the ground in hot climates and in container gardens in cooler climates. It is susceptible to some common plant diseases and common plant pests.
Disocactus flagelliformis, or rat-tail cactus, is a species of cacti in the Cactaceae family. It is native to Mexico, but is cultivated throughout Central and South America. The rat-tail cactus’s most recognizable characteristic is its long spiny stems that hang from it like dreadlocks. This easy-to-grow species of cacti can be planted directly in the ground in hot climates and in container gardens in cooler climates. It is susceptible to some common plant diseases and common plant pests. The rat-tail cactus, also called red tail cactus, thrives in hot, dry climates, such as U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zones 9-11. This means that 30° Fahrenheit (-1.1° Celsius) is its coldest tolerable temperature. It needs full sun or partial shade and does best if the lighting comes from the south or west in the northern hemisphere. General-purpose cactus mix with a pH level that is mildly acidic, neutral, or mildly alkaline should be used instead of regular potting mix or compost.
