Monkey Tail Cactus (Cleistocactus Colademononis) Care and Propagate Guide

The Monkey Tail Cactus, scientifically known as Hildewintera Colademononis or Cleistocactus Colademononis, is a member of the cactus family and is native to the Bolivian countryside in Santa Cruz. This epilithic cactus typically grows on or between steep rocks above the jungle floor in its natural habitat.

Botanical Classification of Monkey Tail Cactus

Kingdom	Plantae
Clade	Tracheophytes
Clade	Angiosperms
Clade	Eudicots
Order	Caryophyllale
Family	Cactaceae
Sub-family	Cactoideae
Genus	Cleistocactus
Species	colademononis

Characteristics of the Monkey Tail Cactus

The Monkey Tail Cactus gets its name from the way its stems resemble a monkey’s tail – pretty cool, huh? Some people say that certain types of rats also have a similar look, and they call them Rat Tail Cacti. The stems of this cactus are a yellow-green color and covered in soft, white spines that stick out and look all fluffy and harmless, but don’t be fooled – they can still prick you!

When you see a Monkey Tail Cactus, you’ll notice that each plant usually has about three to five stems branching out from the bottom. The cactus grows upright for a little while, but then the stems start to hang down and droop. The best part? The Monkey Tail Cactus produces these bright red flowers that are so pretty to look at! They only bloom for a few days before turning into short-lived fruits, but still – how cool is that?

If you want to keep a Monkey Tail Cactus in your home, it can totally be a houseplant! Just keep in mind that because of its droopy stems, it’s best to grow it as a hanging plant.

Optimal Growing Conditions for the Monkey Tail Cactus

Have you ever tried growing Soft Monkey Tail Cactus? It’s super easy to grow from black seeds if you provide it with the right conditions. The soil should be light, well-aerated, and drain quickly. We recommend using Bonsai Jack Succulent Soil, which is the best soil mix out there. It’s pH balanced, pathogen-free, and helps fight against root rot – a win-win for your plants. We even use it for our office plants!

During the warmer months of spring and summer, make sure to water your Soft Monkey Tail Cactus only when the soil feels dry. The more heat, the more water it needs. However, overwatering can be harmful, causing the stems and roots to rot. In the colder months, it’s best to stop watering to prevent frost damage that could kill the plant.

Perfect Propagation Techniques for the Monkey Tail Cactus

Propagation of the Monkey Tail Cactus is relatively easy and can be achieved through stem cuttings. The best time to propagate is during the spring and summer seasons when the plant is actively growing. Here are the steps to follow for successful propagation:

1. Choose a healthy stem: Select a stem that is at least 4 inches long and has no visible damage or disease. It’s best to choose a stem that is at least one year old.
2. Cut the stem: Use a clean and sharp knife to cut the stem at a 45-degree angle. Make sure to cut the stem cleanly to avoid any damage.
3. Let the cutting callus: Allow the cutting to callus over for a few days to prevent moisture from entering the stem and causing rot.
4. Plant the cutting: Once the cutting has callused, it’s time to plant it. Choose a pot with well-draining soil and plant the cutting about an inch deep.
5. Water the cutting: Water the cutting gently, being careful not to overwater it. The soil should be moist but not saturated.
6. Provide the right conditions: Place the cutting in a bright and warm location, but away from direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not wet, and avoid watering the cutting too often.
7. Wait for roots to develop: In about 3-4 weeks, roots should start to develop. Once the roots are established, you can transplant the new plant to a larger pot or even plant it in your garden.

In summer when the Soft Monkey Tail cactus is growing actively, it’s important to provide it with the right nutrients. A low-nitrogen fertilizer is recommended for this purpose. You can mix the fertilizer with water and apply it to the soil around the plant as a liquid. It’s best to do this only once a year, as one application is usually sufficient. By giving your plant the right amount of nutrients, you’ll help it grow healthy and strong.

How to Control Pests on Your Monkey Tail Cactus

Keeping your Monkey Tail Cactus free from pests is important to ensure its healthy growth. Here are some tips on how to control pests on your cactus:

1. Identify the pest: Before taking any action, it’s important to identify the pest that’s causing damage to your cactus. Some common pests that can attack your cactus include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. You can easily spot these pests by examining your plant closely.
2. Manual removal: If the infestation is not severe, you can manually remove the pests from your cactus by using a soft-bristled brush or a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Carefully remove the pests by gently rubbing them off the plant.
3. Insecticidal soap: For severe infestations, you can use insecticidal soap to get rid of the pests. Mix a few drops of insecticidal soap with water and spray it on your plant. Make sure to cover all the affected areas thoroughly. Repeat this process every few days until the infestation is under control.
4. Neem oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can help control pests on your cactus. Dilute neem oil with water and spray it on your plant. It will kill the pests and prevent them from coming back.
5. Keep the plant clean: Regularly clean your cactus to remove any dead or diseased parts. This will help prevent pests from infesting your plant.

By following these tips, you can keep your Monkey Tail Cactus healthy and free from pests.

Repotting the Monkey Tail Cactus

Repotting your Monkey Tail Cactus is an essential part of its care routine. Over time, the plant will outgrow its pot, and it’ll need more space to grow healthy and strong. You’ll know it’s time to repot when you see the roots starting to grow out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot.

To repot, start by selecting a new pot that’s one size bigger than the current one. Choose a pot with good drainage and a similar soil type to what your cactus is currently in. Before removing the cactus from its current pot, water it to help the roots slide out more easily.

Next, gently remove the cactus from its old pot and shake off any excess soil. Inspect the roots and remove any that appear dead or rotted. If the roots are particularly tightly wound, you can use a clean, sharp knife to make small cuts in the root ball to loosen it up.

Place a layer of fresh soil at the bottom of the new pot, and then carefully position the cactus in the center. Fill in the remaining space around the cactus with more soil, being careful not to bury the plant too deeply. Finally, give the cactus a good watering and let it settle into its new home.

Remember, don’t fertilize your Monkey Tail Cactus for the first month after repotting. This will give the plant time to adjust to its new surroundings and reduce the risk of root burn.

Price of Monkey Tail Cactus

The price of a monkey tail cactus can vary depending on a few different factors, such as the size and age of the plant, as well as the location and availability of the seller. On average, a small to medium-sized monkey tail cactus can cost anywhere from $15 to $50 USD, while larger or more mature specimens may be priced higher. It’s important to note that prices can also vary depending on the region and the demand for this particular type of cactus.

Pros and Cons of Monkey Tail Cactus

Monkey tail cactus (Hildewintera Colademononis) is a popular ornamental cactus that has its own set of pros and cons. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of growing this plant:

Pros:

1. Attractive Appearance: Monkey tail cactus has a unique and attractive appearance that makes it a popular choice among cactus enthusiasts. It has long, green stems covered in soft white spines and produces bright pink flowers.
2. Low Maintenance: Monkey tail cactus is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance. It can tolerate neglect, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
3. Drought-Tolerant: This cactus is adapted to survive in dry environments, so it is drought-tolerant and can go for long periods without water.
4. Medicinal Properties: In some cultures, extracts of monkey tail cactus are used to treat various ailments, such as inflammation, pain, and wounds.

Cons:

1. Fragility: The stems of monkey tail cactus are relatively fragile and can break easily if mishandled, making it challenging to transplant or move.
2. Toxicity: The plant’s white spines can cause skin irritation, and its sap can be toxic if ingested. It’s essential to handle this plant with care.
3. Requires Good Drainage: Monkey tail cactus requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
4. Susceptible to Pests: Like all plants, monkey tail cactus is susceptible to pests such as mealybugs and spider mites, which can damage or kill the plant if left unchecked.