Picture via succulentsbox
Basic Info
Disocactus Flagelliformis also known as the ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’. As the plant matures you can expect it to reach up to 30 cm (12″) tall and about 60 cm (24″) in diameter. The plant is best known for having green looking tail like stems. When it finally blooms expect it to produce red flowers.
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Hylocereeae
Genus: Disocactus
Care and Propagation Information
Watering
Disocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’ can be quite beautiful when it is well-taken care off. This succulent type needs less watering than other succulents. The watering method is very important to keep your Disocactus Flagelliformis ‘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 Disocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’. Yet, the succulent should be controlled to avoid overwatering.
General Care for Disocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’
This succulent is one of my favorite hanging cactuses, looking so good in a basket that it is almost a must-have cacti. It is a nice addition to your outside garden!
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Quick Facts:
- Pink orange Flowers
- Spiral patterned green leaves
- Loves Sun
- Can be grown outdoor
- Grows 30 cm (12″) tall
- Grows up to 60 cm (24″) wide
- Can die easily if overwatered see: How to Water Succulent Plants
- Does not handle cold well
- Best propagated by offsets
- Handle with care can be harmful to animals and people
- Grows best during Spring and Fall
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Where to Plant
Disocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’ succulents need strong light. When planting this Rat-Tail Cactus 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 which is around -1.1 °C (or 30°F). If you live in a cold area, it is better to plant Disocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’ in an indoor environment. As long as it gets enough sunlight, the plant will grow happily.
How to Propagate Disocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’
Disocactus Flagelliformis ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’ can be propagated by cuttings or seeds. The first-time repotting is essential when it is bought from the store. Essential tip, you can also propagate the cacti from seeds.
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.
Cuttings
When propagating this succulent from cuttings, cut a leaf from the mother plant carefully with a clean knife or scissors. 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.
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
Disocactus Flagelliformis also known as the ‘Rat-Tail Cactus’. Known to be native to Mexico (mostly Hidalgo and Oaxaca).
