Picture via Fotki
Basic Info
Discocactus Flagelliformis is commonly known as the ‘Rat Tail Cactus’. As the plant matures expect it to reach up to 60 cm (24″) long and around 2 cm (0.8″) in diameter. The plants main feature are the stems that grow freely from the pot in its vivid green colour with small brown spines. When the plant produces flowers expect them to be pink.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Hylocereeae
Genus: Discocactus
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Discocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’ can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care of. This succulent type needs typical watering as the other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your Rat Tail Cactus healthy. It should not sit on the water, and an excess amount of water should be avoided. The best way of watering is soak and dry method this succulent. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Discocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’
This succulent type is a unique one that blooms in the spring. When it blooms, you will enjoy pink flowers. It is a nice addition to your collection of plants especially if you have it displayed in a beautiful pot.
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Quick Facts:
- Prefers full sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 60 cm (24″) tall
- Grows up to 2 cm (0.8″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Prefers Zone 10a-11b -1.1°C (30°F)
- Best propagated by beheadings, offsets or seeds
- Flowers are pink
Where to Plant
Discocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’ succulents need strong light. When planting this succulent type in a garden, make sure it gets sunlight. Full to partial sun is the best for its growth. It is better to grow outdoor rather than indoor.
This type of succulent prefers a warm climate. It can survive at zone 10a-11b which is around -1.1°C (30°F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Rat Tail Cactus in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
When selecting what pot to use be sure that you understand the difference between the material used (See our guide on how to pick the best plant pot).
How to Propagate Discocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’
Rat Tail Cactus can be propagated by beheadings, offsets or seeds. This succulent type does not require repotting often. Of course, the first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store. You can learn all about How To Repot Succulents in our guide.
Like all the other succulent types, a well-drained soil mixture is essential. If you want to know about well-drained soil mixtures, check How to Prepare Well-drained Soil for Succulent Plants.
How to Propagate Discocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’ By Beheadings
You can cut off the head of the succulent using clean scissors. Leave a few inches to the base to stay on the safe side. There should be enough stem on the cutting. Before replanting, wait for a few days so cutting and the base can dry. When the cutting is calloused, replant it. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
How to Propagate Discocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’ From Offsets
Rat Tail Cactus propagates from offsets. To be able to propagate from the mother plant, you might wait several years for the main plant to produce an offset. To start this process, use a sharp knife and remove an offset from the main plant. When you remove the offset, clean the extra soil from it. Before replanting, wait for a few days to allow it to callous. Use well-draining soil for your new succulent plant. Don’t forget to water when the soil dries out.
How to Propagate Discocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’ Using Seeds
This succulent type is a slow grower so even if it can be propagated by its seeds, this method is not recommended. To propagate from the seeds, plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture. This method can be used outdoors. In cooler areas, indoor propagating is recommended.
Origin and Habitat
Discocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat Tail Cactus’ is native to Mexico.
