Monkey Tail Cactus Care Tips & Guide

Monkey Tail Cactus Care Tips & Guide

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Introduction

The Monkey Tail Cactus belongs to the Cactaceae family, a group of perennial succulent plants, most of which originate in the Americas, both north and south. Also can be classified as a Lithophyte, as it has shallow roots and grows naturally among stones and in the crevices of cliffs, surviving off the moisture in the atmosphere.

The Monkey Tail Cactus derives its name from its long supple stems that are covered in soft spines that look like strands of white hair(droopy). Except for their light green color, the stems look and feel like primate’s appendages. Monkey Tail Cacti are relatively easy for beginners to grow. Follow these plant care guidelines to ensure that your plants thrive.

Care Tips

Light: Monkey Tail Cacti thrive in areas that receive plenty of bright, indirect sunlight. While indirect light is ideal, this desert-native cactus will tolerate some full sun as well.

Water: Weekly in the spring and summer growing season. Your Monkey Tail Cactus will store water in its stems for fall and winter when it enters its dormancy period. Lightly water it during the off-season when the soil is completely dry, but be careful to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Soil: A well-draining organic soil mix or specially formulated cactus soil mix is ideal. Look for cactus mix at your local nursery or add perlite to a standard potting mix to help the soil drain excess water.

Potting: The Monkey Tail Cactus has a shallow root system and doesn't need a large pot to thrive. As the stems grow past the length of the pot, however, consider repotting it in a hanging basket to allow the flowing stems to trail.

Temperature: A sun-loving, warm climate cactus, the plant will do best in temperatures above 15 °C(60 °F), in temperatures as low as -6°C(20 °F).

Humidity: Being accustomed to adverse conditions including draughts, the plant doesn’t require supplementation in the way of humidity.

 

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