The Cactus Cola de Mono, commonly known as the Monkey Tail Cactus, is a distinctive succulent. Its long, fuzzy, trailing stems make it ideal for hanging baskets or elevated displays, allowing its characteristic “tails” to cascade freely.
Understanding Cactus Cola de Mono
The Monkey Tail Cactus (Cleistocactus colademononis) features cylindrical stems that can reach up to 8 feet long. These stems are covered with soft, white, hair-like spines, giving them a fuzzy texture. While appearing soft, these hairs conceal smaller, prickly spines underneath. When conditions are favorable, it produces vibrant red or orange tubular flowers, typically blooming from spring through late summer, contrasting with its white stems.
Caring for Cactus Cola de Mono
Light Needs
The Monkey Tail Cactus thrives with bright, indirect sunlight. Indoors, place it near a south or west-facing window for ample light. While it tolerates some morning direct sun, intense midday sun can scorch its delicate, fuzzy stems. Outdoors, a location with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal to prevent sunburn.
Watering Practices
Overwatering is a common cause of root rot for the Monkey Tail Cactus. Use the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season (spring to late summer), water thoroughly, ensuring excess water drains away. During the dormant period (fall and winter), significantly reduce watering frequency, to once every few weeks, to prevent moist soil.
Soil Requirements
This cactus requires a well-draining soil mix to prevent waterlogging. A specialized succulent or cactus mix is suitable, or amend regular potting soil. Adding perlite, pumice, or coarse sand improves drainage and aeration. This mimics its natural habitat, where it grows in rocky, gritty soils that allow water to drain quickly.
Temperature and Humidity
The Monkey Tail Cactus prefers warm, dry climates and thrives in temperatures of 60-80°F (16-27°C) during its growing season. It tolerates brief drops to around 35°F, but prolonged cold is detrimental. A cooler winter rest period, between 50-55°F (10-13°C), encourages abundant flowering. This cactus prefers low to moderate humidity, and high humidity is not necessary.
Fertilizing
During the growing season, the Monkey Tail Cactus benefits from occasional fertilization. A balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-5 or 15-15-20 NPK) applied monthly or every two weeks encourages growth and flowering. Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to prevent root burn. Avoid fertilization during dormant winter months.
Propagating Cactus Cola de Mono
Stem cuttings are the most common and effective method for propagating the Monkey Tail Cactus. Use a clean, sharp knife or pruning shears to take a healthy 4-6 inch stem section. After cutting, allow the severed end to dry and form a callus for several days in a cool, dry spot. This callusing prevents rot when planted.
Once the callus has formed, plant the cutting into a pot filled with a well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix. Position the pot in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Water sparingly until roots begin to form, which typically takes a few weeks. Keep the soil slightly moist but not saturated. The parent plant may also produce new growth from the cut site.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
The Monkey Tail Cactus can encounter a few common problems. Overwatering is a frequent issue, often leading to root rot, seen as mushy, discolored stems. This can be fatal if not addressed. If root rot is suspected, remove the plant, trim away any soft, brown roots, allow them to dry, and then repot in fresh, dry, well-draining soil. Conversely, shriveling or a deflated appearance indicates underwatering, signaling the need for thorough watering.
Lack of flowering often stems from insufficient light or a lack of a cool, dry winter dormancy. Ensure adequate bright, indirect light and cooler winter temperatures to encourage blooms. Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects can affect the plant. Treat by isolating the plant and dabbing pests with rubbing alcohol, or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil for larger infestations.