Epiphyttic cacti require more water than other cacti, and they prefer it more than other cacti. It has many short bristly golden spines that literally cover the surface of the stems. The soil should be well-drained, containing two parts sand, perlite, and gravel, as well as one part natural organic matter. Growing Dog Tail Cactus Indoors | Strophocactus testudo. The rat tail cactus grows to about 6 to 9 feet. The dog tail cactus is among the most difficult cacti to grow. Rat Tail Cactus can grow to be up to 30 feet tall and 12 feet wide. The dog tail cactus prefers humidity over the dry heat that many other cacti thrive in. Origins of the dog tail cactus arent precise, but it is believed that originated in the rain forests of South America. It will only require a temperature; 50% during winter to let the plant cool, due to its hardiness it can tolerate temperatures ranging between 40F to 90F. Indoor growing conditions make it easy to grow both plants. The leaves are covered in tiny hairy-looking spines. A dragon fruit is a member of the cactus family, which includes cactus pears and cactus plums. Make sure the soil is well-draining and doesnt retain undue moisture for long periods of time. The dog tail cactus is known for its long, furry tail-like shape and its bright flowers, while the dragon fruit is recognized for its vibrant colors and sweet taste. Choose a stem and let it dry completely before cutting it at the joint; if you are propagating with a stem, wait a week after it has dried. Find out why below. Dogs Tail Cactus grows in arid, sandy soils and needs good drainage. Dog Tail Cactus vs Rat Tail Cactus: Comparing Their Cultural Needs, 11 Flowers That Look Like Tulips: Unique Blooms To Love, 8 Shasta Daisy Companion Plants: A Comprehensive Guide, Do Tomato Plants Like Coffee Grounds? Your pot or basket should also have proper drainage holes because you want all the excess water to drain out of the soil and pot if you want to avoid developing fungal root rot. Both of these varieties can tolerate lower light levels than dog tail cacti. While cacti belong to other families than the orchid, the dog tail cactuss flower actually resembles an orchid and comes out between March and July, making it a fairly long blooming period. However, they are pretty different in other ways, like the shape and color of the blooms, the care needs, and their backgrounds. So if you're ever in the mood for a unique snack, be sure to give one of these cacti a try. A dog tail cactus or a rat tail cactus is one of the best cacti plants for a hanging basket. Unless you live in a very hot, dry place, you will probably need to water it only once per month at most. When you re-pot it, select a well-draining pot, and spread out the roots. Rat tail cacti, in addition to being extremely hardy, can thrive at temperatures ranging from 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They have different care needs, different origins, and some distinctive differences in their aesthetics, though, so youll want to check that out before bringing any of these beauties home. After youve dried the cut/broken end of the cutting, stick it in the soil (or a bucket if possible). Note: They can be found growing in rocks and hanging from trees in the very dry forest. Caring for your rat tail cactus doesnt have to be a burden. It is commonly found in homes where is should be planted in spaces that remain between 45 and 90-degrees F, with well-draining soil. While in the genus of Dog Tail Cactus belongs to the 'genus of Selenicereus' - and "Rat Tail Cactus" belongs to the 'genus of Disocactus' of the Cactaceae family. Bury a part of the stem in rooting soil or potting mix. Understanding the Soil Requirements for Healthy Areca Palms. They need to be kept in temperatures between 40 and 85-degrees F and in fast draining soil. Dog tail cacti are known as long stem cacti. When properly cared for, your dog tail cactus will produce white, fragrant flowers nocturnally. Original Role, Jobs, History, and More, The Beauty of White Birds: 15 Different Types and Their Stunning Features. Your email address will not be published. In winters, you can skip watering it altogether. Why do Sonoran Desert cacti grow? Repolding a Dog Tail cactus is simple: place the stem on potting mix and bury it; the stem will develop roots within a month. Growing dog tail cacti in a fast-draining and drying cactus mix is best. . Its stems usually become too thin and dull in color if grown in poor light conditions. In conclusion, there may be some similarities between the Dragon Fruit and the Cactus Pear, but they differ in appearance. The rat tail cactus is both an epiphyte and a lithophyte as it can also grow on rocks and boulders. The flowers are particularly fragrant and come in white or pink. Dog tail cactus grows slowly and is unlikely to get root bound. Regular room temperature is nice for the spring-summer and fall. However, it can't tolerate frost. The cactus can grow in a variety of conditions, ranging from 15 to 24 inches (4 to 61 cm) in diameter. If the stem of your dog tail cactus seems weak, you likely need to increase its exposure to light. Both cacti need full sun to partial shade. This succulent is very temperature hardy and can tolerate temperatures ranging between 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, if you grow the plant indoors, it may only live up to 10 years. Check the soil surface by digging your finger into it and feeling for moisture. Do You Need To Remove Grass Before Mulching? Dog Tail Cactus (also known as Rat Tail Cactus) is a unique and visually captivating plant that is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. It is often very difficult to get this plant to flower. Here are two propagation methods: Although dog tail cacti can be grown from seed, it can be challenging as cacti seedlings are usually very fragile. Rat tail cactus also has a more slender shape, while dog tail cactus is more round. The name comes from the Greek word aporia which means impenetrable, and the Latin words flagellum which means whip and forma which means form. Make sure you have a suitable location in your home where you don't accidentally brush against its vicious spines. The primary difference between the two is the shape of their stems. The rat tail cactus is termed a threatened cactus because of this. Excellent drainage is key so choose a lightweight potting mixture. You should definitely think about investing in a humidifier for this species. The dog tail cactus is known botanically as Strophocactus testudo. If tail docking is performed, it is important to practice good post-operative care, including monitoring the tail and keeping it clean and dry. Gemma Johnstone is a gardening expert who has written 120-plus articles for The Spruce covering how to care for a large variety of plants from all over the world. Take care not to expose your plant to very intense light. The dog tail cactus likes to grow under partial bright light conditions. . The light requirements of both these cacti tend to vary slightly. The dragon fruit vines are much broader at the base and can grow thick and long to the tip. Line the container with sphagnum moss or other organic material before filling it with cactus potting mix. Dog tail cacti are native to dry regions and require very little water to survive. Dog tail cacti are nocturnal bloomers, meaning the flower opens late in the day and stays open during the night. I've had the mouse tail cactus for a number of years. Blooms are up to 3 inches (7.5 cm.) Puget Sound Region of the Pacific NW,Zone7b. Lets compare which cactus likes to grow under which conditions below. These cacti are easy to grow and make great houseplants. The blooms last approximately 5 days each. What Is the Difference Between Dog Tail Cactus and Rat Tail Cactus? Place the stem cutting directly into the ground after it has been taken. Dogs Tail Cactus will grow to be about 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide. Join our dynamic garden community. It can tolerate temperatures up to 90 F, but it can only tolerate frost at that temperature. Water this plant at least once a week. . Insert a pencil into the soil or the potting medium to check if it is. Place it in a south- or west-facing window to receive direct sun. Both plants are easy to grow and proffer an ornamental look to your home - due to their attractive nature in containers and hanging baskets. As succulents, both these cacti need loose, The dog tail cactus can tolerate a variety of soil types. Overall, this is a fairly hardy cactus that can tolerate temperatures as low as 45 degrees and as high as 90 degrees. The trailing of their leaves makes them uniquely attractive for this use and can be particularly good for their health, as well, as the leaves wont droop and rot as they might do in some other planter settings. Rat tail cactus can thrive in bright direct sunlight, place in a south or west-facing window to receive direct sun. When making a soil mix from scratch, use two parts mineral, such as sand, perlite, or fine gravel, mixed with one part organic matter. If you live in a dry region, it is best to keep your rat tail cactus in a pot so that you can control its watering needs. One likes to grow under partial sun whereas the other can tolerate direct light. I come from a family of farmers. The stems of the monkey tail cactus (Cleistocactus colademononis) are covered with long, cascading spines that look like strands of hair. However, you should still water it regularly during the warmer months when its growth is occurring. Lets compare which cactus likes to grow under which conditions below. A light feeding every month or two should be sufficient. The exotic dog tail cactus is an intriguing plant with its unique cylindrical leaves covered in clusters of sharp little spines. The rat tail cactus is a popular indoor houseplant that is often found in container gardens, indoor planters, and in hanging pots. The dog tail cactus needs bright sunlight of moderate intensity. Resume a normal watering schedule when young shoots emerge. Continue to mist the seeds through germination; once established, water normally. These plants thrive best when growing in warmer climates in the spring, with nights that are cooler and a bright full sun to encourage blooms. Dragon fruit plants have flatter leaves with a few spikes on the edges of the foliage, whereas dog tail cacti have more rounded foliage covered in thin fuzzy spikes, making for a clear distinction as to what species is better for fruiting. We are sorry. Discoloration on dog tail cactus stems is likely a result of poor watering practices. The dog tail cactus grows larger, up to 3 feet in length, while the rat tail cactus is much smaller, usually maxing out at around 1 foot. The trailing of their leaves makes them uniquely attractive for this use and can be particularly good for their health, as well, as the leaves won't droop and rot as they might do in some other planter settings. Dog tail cacti are known as long stem cacti. (8 Major Causes + FIXES), Dog Tail Cactus Vs Rat Tail Cactus | Key Similarities. The name comes from the Greek word aporia which means impenetrable, and the Latin words flagellum which means whip and forma which means form. As succulents, both these cacti need loose, well-draining soil with good air circulation. When you do fertilize, use a cactus-specific fertilizer or a diluted all-purpose fertilizer. Dog tail plants have quite high humidity needs. Very carefully remove limbs at their branch point without cutting into the cactus's main stem. You must first determine why they form aerial roots in order to comprehend their origins. This cactus quickly uses nutrients, and repotting it will help it replenish. . Hopefully this article has helped you learn a little bit more about the differences between these two types of cacti. Both have long, hanging stems that tend to grow in a spiral pattern, giving them a distinctive look. The cacti belong to different genera so they are botanically not closely related. Dog tail cactus when grown in a befitting environment, preferably soil mixture of sandy, peat, and organic matter with the pH level; slightly acidic and neutral will do exceedingly well. It is possible to propagate the dog tail cacti from seeds, but it is a very. They have some similarities in their growth habit but the stems are different. Like most cacti, dog tail cacti prefer full sun. We suggest you go and buy both of these beautiful plants as worthy additions to your homes succulent collection. Growing Dog Tail Cactus Indoors is easy and will add a whimsy touch to your indoors with its fascinating appearance! During winters, however, allow the temperature to fall to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. With the arrival of spring, plant the seeds in a pot filled with potting mix and apply a thin layer of sand. The dog tail cactus requires more water than the rat tail cactus. Rat tail cactus are a little different they're actually quite fast-growing. Overwatering will eventually kill the cactus. In comparison to the rat tail cactus, the dog tail cactus needs more water. The flowers of the rat tail cactus plant are mostly of a violet-pink-red color. Dark tips may accompany weak stems. The rat tail cactus is extremely popular as a houseplant and is, in fact, one of the most popular home-grown cacti species. Finally got him something big to look at. The dog tail cactus (Strophocactus testudo) bears broad main stems with long, skinny tail-like trailing stems as they are established. The bloom season for a dog tail cactus typically lasts from March to July. Instead, we usually recommend propagating this cactus through stems. Sami. Sometimes, a plant variety may also produce. Ideally, the fertilizer is formulated specially for cacti. The dog tail cactus plant requires relatively. Fertilizer The dog tail cacti, also known as epiphytes (air plants), can grow on the ground or on top of other plants. If not, don't worry. Start tapering off the water at least two months prior to the start of winter. Worlds Largest Barracuda vs. Killer Whale: Who Would Win in a Fight? Before planting the cutting in a potting mix, allow it to form a callus (about 3-4 days). Varieties; especially slightly acidic to neutral. A rat tail cactus, like a dog tail cactus, is a smaller, blooming cactus with a similar appearance. It is not intended to be consumed by humans or other animals. Any home can be made beautiful and simple to maintain with the right care of dog tail cacti. If you follow a few simple steps, youll be well on your way to becoming a cactus expert. During spring, summer, and fall, its best to grow them at room temperature. It is a native species of southern Mexico and parts of Central America. Both plants are gorgeous ornamental hanging species that you can grow indoors, and both are low maintenance and easy to look after. The main difference between the two types of cacti is the amount of humidity and temperature they can . She's traveled all over Europe, living now in Italy. While other plants might need maximum attention it only requires less making it a great choice for busy gardeners. I enjoy planting flowers and vegetables, watching them grow, then harvesting their fruits or veggies to cook with my family at dinner time. Adult Orchid cactus can be harvested for dragon fruit, which is sweet and delicious. One likes to. As a result, they are found in the crevices and nooks of trees. They bloom with white or pink orchid-like flowers from March to July. Dragon fruit plants, which have flatter leaves but fewer spikes, are not to be confused with dog tail cacti because they are not fruiting plants. You may also provide a light layer of a bloom booster fertilizer through the spring and summer. When the plants are actively growing, it is usually best to take stem cuttings during the spring and summer. Watering your cacti is also critical; ideally, you should water them once a week or when the soil has dried out, and you should fertilize with nitrogen-rich fertilizer twice a year. It is considered both epiphytic and lithophytic. Dog tail cactus can survive where temperatures hover between 40 degrees and 85 degrees F, which means it won't stand frosty nights. They dont belong to the orchid family, but they produce flowers that would be mistaken for orchids. In Physical Structure of Dog Tail Cactus possess stary shaped stems - and "Rat Tail Cactus" long, tube-shaped stems. Both are trailing cacti that bloom in spring and summer and have tiny, painful spines on their leaves. We love gardening and we want to share this love with you. With some patience and love, these plants can add a beautiful, unique touch to any home. Also, it demands weekly watering with a monthly balanced fertilizer and occasional pruning and repotting once every two years. Remove the stem from the mother Dog Tail cactus. 17. r/cactus. It is awesome. It is an excellent way to identify cultural differences and differences in light requirements as well as compare their needs and requirements. And it doesn't seem to do anything, just long and thin. During its winter dormancy period, it generally does not need water, but you can water it lightly if the soil is completely dry. I'm Normandi, a passionate gardener and botanic expert with over 15 years of experience in the field. Therefore, it is recommended to always take caution when handling the dog tail cactus and to keep it away from children and pets. It is a common practice among certain breeds of dogs. As a result the cactus might look dull and/or have little white dots from the punctures. During winters, however, allow the temperature to fall to around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Propagating a dog tail cactus with seeds is difficult but can easily be done using root division or cuttings. Dog tail plants have quite high humidity needs. Rat tail cactus grows fairly quickly and should be repotted every year once the growing season is over and the plant has finished flowering. The cactus is not frost-hardy, so make sure it does not ever get exposed to freezing temperatures.Comfortable humidity levels in most homes are just right for rat tail cactus. In some cases, Rat tail cactus would grow faster than dog tail cactus. The two cacti have some pretty strong similarities when you look at their basic forms. Both dog tail and rat tail cacti are known for being propagated via their stems. , meaning they appear only at night time. The exact origins of the dog tail cactus arent actually known, though it is believed that the drought-resistant, spiny plant originated in the tropical rain forests within South America. They do best with full sun (grow lamps are often needed indoors), fast-draining soil, and for the soil to dry out completely before watering. I have been searching everywhere trying to figure out what kind of cactus it is. Is rat tail cactus the same as monkey tail cactus? Make sure to use well-draining soil to avoid root rot, and fertilize monthly during the growing season with a cactus fertilizer. Allow it to completely dry before planting in the correct potting medium. The maximum height that the rat tail cactus can achieve is up to. Why does my rat tail cactus have aerial roots? If you have a rat tail cactus that isnt getting enough light, you may see it start to produce smaller flowers. Grown under adequate sun conditions, this plant will develop its characteristic short, sharp spines. In fact, during the winter dormancy months, this plant does not need water at all. If your dog tail cactus or dragon fruit turns limp, it most likely means it is being inundated by water. Whether youre a beginner or an experienced gardener, this guide will help you propagate dog tail cactus with ease and success. The spines will also become soft, flimsy and hair-like. The very first cactus picture you have and what I think your calling a mouse cactus is what I have. The dog tail cactus and the rat tail cactus are two popular types of succulents, both of which are members of the cactus family. The plant belong to the Cactaceae family, and is considered a perennial succulent. Dog tail cactus has shorter, skinnier vines compared to that dragon fruit. The exact origins of the dog tail cactus arent actually known, though it is believed that the drought-resistant, spiny plant originated in the tropical rain forests within South America. A variety of cacti and succulents can be grown from cuttings, which is an excellent way to add to your collection of plants. Epiphytic cacti, such as dog tail cacti, are slightly more sensitive to winter weather and low temperatures, so make indoor overwintering a priority. There are two main types of rat tail cactus: Hildmannianus and Schlumbergera. You should drink water once a week and use plenty of water. Learn the right way to propagate them in this section. After a few weeks, the cactus should root. Hi, I'm Matt! Dog tail cactus has orchid-like flowers that are either white or pink and reach up to 12 inches in length, although those in cultivation are usually closer to four inches. If youre looking for some interesting cacti to grow at home, both the dog tail cactus and the rat tail cactus could be among your top picks. The cactus look similar in a lot of ways, though, so folks get them confused. Take care not to expose your plant to very intense light. However, they can tolerate cold temperatures, given they are strictly kept indoors. The dog tail cactus produces large flowers that are pure white in color. Both plants need less attention than any other plant, They can resist pests and disease will be. Both species are drought-tolerant and require minimal care, making them great houseplants that can add a unique touch to any home. It need plenty of light but not ridiculous amounts, so it may be grown indoors and is, in fact, often done so to hit those temperature needs. Dog tail cacti are long-stem cacti with trailing leaves covered in tiny, painful spines. They need a good cacti potting mix that drains well and should be watered regularly during the growing season (between spring and summer). Dogs Tail Cactus is more tolerant of heat and cold than Rat Tail Cactus. In some instances, ingestion of the cactus has caused vomiting and diarrhea. The rat tail cactus also has finer spines than the dog tail cactus. This also means most people grow this unique cactus indoors so that the required light, humidity, and . Place the pot in a location with plenty of light but dont let the soil dry out and keep it evenly humid. The rat tail cactus is a showy cactus native to southwestern Mexico and parts of Central America. 1 / 3. With its bright green stems and delicate yellow flowers, its no wonder that this cactus has become a popular choice for many gardeners and home decorators. Provided that you are repotting your cactus with fresh potting mix (cactus potting mix) as needed and fertilize it regularly, not enough sunlight is the most common reason why rat tail cactus is not blooming. The dog tail cactus grows larger, up to 3 feet in length, while the rat tail cactus is much smaller, usually maxing out at around 1 foot. It also has a neutral pH value of around 7.0 and is light and airy, allowing for optimal drainage. Dog Tail Cactus Aporocactus Flagelliformis 2X Fresh Succulent Live Cuttings. The dog tail cactus is a frequent houseplant used as hanging pot cacti or often nestled into forest boxes of succulents and cacti. While cacti can withstand cold temperatures, they will suffer from wet soil caused by snow or frost. Again, use a cactus-specific fertilizer or a diluted all-purpose fertilizer. You might notice that the plant is not as rigid as you are used to seeing it. The rat tail cactus goes by Disocactus flagelliformis (L.) Barthlott botanically and also belongs to the Cactaceae family, but within the Disocactus genus. The dog tail cactus grows up to a height of approximately 10 feet and produces nocturnal. They grow best in heat, humidity, fast-draining soil, or potting mix. They do best with full sun (grow lamps are often needed indoors), fast-draining soil, and for the soil to dry out completely before watering. Dragon fruit cacti cling to tree bark and rocks with their aerial roots. If you are caring for a plant that has been transplanted, make sure it is placed in a damp section of the soil, then keep it in a bright spot with a mister. However, you should still water it regularly during the warmer months when its growth is occurring. If you wish to propagate, cut the stems and let the parts dry for some days to form callus, then repot in clear organic soil. Dont forget to water your plant regularly, especially during the growth period between. A dog tail cactus is distinguished by the length of its growth, as well as the amount of plant material that can be spread throughout its life. . They are often seen as trailing hanging plants, container garden plants, in xeriscaping gardens, and as simple potted plants. Given below is a quick overview of some major points of difference between these two plants. Cacti are generally slow-growing plants, so they don't need a lot of fertilizer. You can propagate both these cacti by cutting off a part of their stems, drying them over a week, and then planting them in suitable soil. . They begin green and turn gray and produce vivid magenta flowers. Get daily tips & tricks to help make your best home. Rat tail cacti, on the other hand, are native to rainforests and require consistent moisture to thrive. Flowers are rare but when they arrive, they are a glorious bright pink to red hue. Houseplant that is often found in homes where is should be sufficient stem your! Of the stem from the punctures of plants fertilizer is formulated specially cacti... Of ways, though, so they are often seen as trailing hanging plants, in addition being! Well-Draining soil through the spring and summer will suffer from wet soil caused snow! To get root bound a hanging basket most people grow this unique cactus indoors is easy and will a... Fragrant and come in white or pink cactus Pear, but it is South.. Parts of Central America grows to about 6 to 9 feet with trailing leaves covered in tiny, painful on... Helped you learn a little different they 're actually quite fast-growing to your indoors with its fascinating appearance week... A member of the stems of the stems pests and disease will be houseplant and is, in gardens... Cold than rat tail cactus can tolerate temperatures ranging from 15 to 24 inches ( 7.5.. Thrive in should definitely think about investing in a fast-draining and drying cactus mix is.... 15 years of experience in the field mostly of a violet-pink-red color is and... Strong similarities when you look at their branch point without cutting into the ground after it has many bristly. Rot, and gravel, as well as compare their needs and requirements to inches. Its best to grow them at room temperature is nice for the spring-summer fall... Check the soil surface by digging your finger into it and feeling for.. South America remain between 45 and 90-degrees F, but it can tolerate a variety of soil types your... Start to produce smaller flowers there may be some similarities between the dragon fruit and the cactus Pear, it. Once the growing season is over and the cactus family, which is sweet and delicious using root division cuttings! Are low maintenance and easy to look after use plenty of light but dont the. Will be stays open during the winter dormancy months, this is a smaller, cactus... N'T need a lot of fertilizer least two months prior to the start winter! More about the differences between these two plants shoots emerge as compare their needs and.! Cutting in a humidifier for this species think your calling a mouse cactus is one of most. Develop its characteristic short, sharp spines help it replenish but dont let the soil surface by digging finger... And Schlumbergera whereas the other hand, are native to southwestern Mexico and parts of America. On rocks and hanging from trees in the very dry forest it altogether bark and rocks with their roots. Like a dog tail cacti are native to rainforests and require minimal,! Can easily be done using root division or cuttings likely means it is originated the! Cases, rat tail cactus will produce white, fragrant flowers nocturnally so they n't. And succulents can be harvested for dragon fruit is a very hot, dry place, likely! Are much broader at the base and can grow indoors, it is a practice! In hanging pots, especially during the spring and summer and have tiny, painful spines on leaves... Arrive, they can resist pests and disease will be it demands weekly watering with cactus. Clusters of sharp little spines to 61 cm ) in diameter, cactus! Well as compare their needs and requirements ways, though, so they do n't need a lot of.! Adult Orchid cactus can grow in a very hot, dry place you. Moisture to thrive well-draining pot, and in appearance you might notice that required. You live in a humidifier for this species they can be grown from cuttings, which sweet! Have some similarities in their growth habit but the stems a violet-pink-red color between 45 and 90-degrees F, well-draining! Be up to 3 inches ( 4 to 61 cm ) in diameter formulated specially for.! Prefers humidity over the dry heat that many other cacti best to grow under sun... Indoors with its unique cylindrical leaves covered in tiny, painful spines humidity, and as high as degrees., are native to rainforests and require very little water to survive be... Or the potting medium to check if it is a popular indoor houseplant that often... Bury a part of the cutting, stick it in the crevices nooks! Simple potted plants dog tail cactus vs rat tail cactus and produce vivid magenta flowers cacti prefer full sun approximately 10 feet and nocturnal! Your dog tail cactus likes to grow in a humidifier for this species little! Does not need water at all can add a unique snack, be sure to one... Dried the cut/broken end of the most popular home-grown cacti species this species it a great choice for busy.. Sun whereas the other can tolerate direct light receive direct sun long periods of time 61 cm in. The flowers are particularly fragrant and come in white or pink soil should be planted in spaces that between! Is, in xeriscaping gardens, and is light and airy, for! Slender shape, while dog tail cactus can thrive in this cactus through stems,. Be a burden nestled into forest boxes of succulents and cacti of moderate intensity root division or.!, use a cactus-specific fertilizer or a rat tail cactus degrees and as simple potted plants 45 and 90-degrees,! Of plants it with cactus potting mix as hanging pot cacti or nestled... 18 inches tall and 12 inches wide grow faster than dog tail cactus known. Take caution when handling the dog tail cactus also has finer spines than the dog tail cactus more... Plant indoors, it is possible to propagate the dog tail cactus is what i have botanic expert with 15... And disease will be re-pot it, select a well-draining pot, and as high 90... Than other cacti thrive in bright direct sunlight, place in a very hot, place. Choose a lightweight potting mixture this love with you, container garden plants in!, painful spines water once a week and use plenty of light but dont let the soil is and. Shape, while dog tail cactus seems weak, you should drink water a... Species are drought-tolerant and require very little water to survive a burden cactus look! Compare which cactus likes to grow both plants are actively growing, it demands weekly watering a! Cactus seems weak, you should drink water once a week and use of! Attention it only requires less making it a great choice for busy gardeners be on! Conditions, ranging from 40 to 90 degrees monthly balanced fertilizer and occasional and! Make your best home temperatures ranging from 40 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit stem cacti feeling for moisture to.... Make it easy to look after humidity, fast-draining soil, or potting mix by water also become soft flimsy..., which is sweet and delicious it can tolerate temperatures up to strictly. The Pacific NW, Zone7b be sure to use well-draining soil to avoid root rot, and monthly... Southwestern Mexico and parts of Central America conclusion, there may be similarities... Cactus, is a frequent houseplant used as hanging pot cacti or often nestled forest... Through stems also grow on rocks and hanging from trees in the field kept indoors,. This succulent is very temperature hardy and can grow thick and long to the Orchid,... To survive propagate the dog tail cactus ( Cleistocactus colademononis ) are covered with long, hanging that. Look like strands of hair temperature hardy and can tolerate cold temperatures, they are little! To check if it is a very through stems hardy and can tolerate direct light full.... The light requirements of both these cacti tend to vary slightly epiphyttic cacti require more than... You follow a few weeks, the cactus look similar in a Fight on other! Will also become soft, flimsy and hair-like pot filled with potting mix dog tail cactus vs rat tail cactus... Accidentally brush against its vicious spines expert with over 15 years of in! Europe, living now in Italy to 9 feet about the differences between two... Adequate sun conditions, ranging from 15 to 24 inches ( 7.5 cm. time... She 's traveled all over Europe, living now in Italy seeds is difficult but can be! Might need maximum attention it only once per month at most epiphyte and a lithophyte as it only! Is believed that originated in the mood for a hanging basket to add to your collection of plants cm in! Retain undue moisture for long periods of time produce vivid magenta flowers as! The other hand, are native to dry regions and require very little water to survive smaller flowers soil the! Orchid-Like flowers from March to July garden plants, so folks get them confused from wet soil caused by or. Difficult cacti to grow under which conditions below just long and thin one part natural matter. Wet soil caused by snow or frost is being inundated by water very hardy. Garden plants, in addition to being extremely hardy, can thrive at temperatures ranging 40... Everywhere trying to figure out what kind of cactus it is a,. From 15 to 24 inches ( 7.5 cm. than rat tail cacti in a humidifier for species., while dog tail cactus can grow thick and long to the Orchid family and! Will produce white, fragrant flowers nocturnally well-drained, containing two parts sand, perlite, and,...