Cactus - Cleistocactus Colademononis Winteri aka Monkey's Tail
The Cleistocactus Colademononis Winteri, or Monkey's Tail cactus, is a charming succulent known for its long, cascading stems covered in fluffy, golden-brown spines. These cylindrical stems resemble monkey tails, hence the common name. The cactus is native to Bolivia and thrives in warm, dry climates. It is a relatively slow-growing plant, reaching heights of up to 2 meters indoors.
Light:
- They thrive in bright, indirect sunlight.
- A few hours of direct morning or afternoon sun is fine, but avoid intense midday sun, which can scorch the stems.
- Indoors, place them near a south- or west-facing window.
Water:
- Water sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer).
- Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- In winter, reduce watering significantly as they go dormant.
Soil:
- Use a well-draining cactus and succulent mix.
- Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent root rot.
Temperature:
- They prefer warm temperatures (65-80°F or 18-27°C) during the growing season.
- Can tolerate cooler temperatures (50-55°F or 10-13°C) during winter dormancy.
- Protect from frost.
Humidity:
- They can tolerate low humidity levels, but occasional misting can help keep the air moist and deter pests.
Fertilizer:
- Fertilize during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
- Avoid fertilizing during the winter dormancy period.
Propagation:
- Propagate by cuttings or seeds.
- Cuttings should be allowed to dry and callus over before planting in well-draining soil.
Pests and Diseases:
- Watch out for mealybugs and scale insects.
- Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Additional Tips:
- Repot every 2-3 years in a slightly larger pot to provide more room for growth.
- Be careful when handling the cactus as the spines can be irritating.
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.