The Monkey Tail Cactus (Hildewintera colademononis or Cleistocactus colademononis) is a unique ornamental plant. Its distinctive appearance features long, cascading stems covered in soft, white, hair-like spines, which give it the common name “monkey tail.” Originating from South America, this plant is often grown in hanging baskets where its stems can gracefully trail.
Understanding the Monkey Tail Cactus
The scientific name for this plant is Cleistocactus colademononis, though it was formerly known as Hildewintera colademononis. This cactus is native to the high-altitude regions of Bolivia, in the Andes mountains, where it grows between 4,200 and 5,000 feet. It is often found growing as an epiphyte or lithophyte, clinging to rocky cliffs and ledges, which influences its trailing growth habit. Its cylindrical stems can reach lengths of several feet, covered in dense, soft, white hairs that serve as a protective layer against harsh sunlight and herbivores. When it blooms, from late spring to early summer, the Monkey Tail Cactus produces vibrant red or orange tubular flowers that emerge along the upper portions of the stems.
Caring for Your Monkey Tail Cactus
Light Needs
The Monkey Tail Cactus thrives in bright, indirect light conditions. Placing it near a south- or west-facing window indoors can provide adequate illumination. While it can tolerate some direct morning sun, intense midday or afternoon sun can scorch its delicate, fuzzy stems. Insufficient light can lead to weak, elongated stems and may hinder flowering.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is necessary for the Monkey Tail Cactus to prevent root rot. A commercial cactus or succulent mix is suitable for potting this plant. Creating a custom blend by mixing regular potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand in a 2:1 ratio can enhance drainage and aeration. This plant naturally grows in rocky, gritty soils, so avoiding heavy, water-retentive mediums is important.
Watering Techniques
Use the “soak and dry” method, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. During the active growing season, from spring through summer, watering thoroughly every 7-14 days may be appropriate, depending on environmental conditions. In fall and winter, when the plant enters dormancy, significantly reduce watering, providing water sparingly when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering is a common issue that can lead to root rot.
Temperature and Humidity
The Monkey Tail Cactus prefers warm temperatures, between 60-80°F (16-27°C) during its growing season. It can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures, but it is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 28°F (-2°C). During winter dormancy, a cool rest period, around 50-55°F (10-13°C), can encourage abundant flower production in the spring. As a cactus, it prefers low humidity levels.
Fertilization
Fertilization is beneficial during the growing season from spring through summer. A balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer, diluted to half strength, can be applied once a month. Fertilizing is not necessary during the fall and winter months when the plant is dormant.
Propagating Monkey Tail Cactus
Propagating the Monkey Tail Cactus is straightforward through stem cuttings. Begin by taking a healthy stem section, around 4-6 inches long, using a clean, sharp knife or shears. After making the cut, allow the severed end to dry and form a callus for several days (2-5 days) in a cool, dry, shaded area. Callusing helps prevent rot when the cutting is planted.
Once the callus has formed, plant the cutting into a small pot filled with well-draining cactus soil mix. Insert the calloused end about an inch deep into the soil. Water sparingly after planting until roots begin to develop, which can take a few weeks. Placing the pot in a warm spot with bright, indirect light will support rooting.
Common Issues and Solutions
Overwatering is a common cause of mushy stems and root rot in Monkey Tail Cactus. Adjusting the watering schedule to ensure the soil dries completely between waterings and using a fast-draining soil mix resolves this. If rot has started, affected parts can be trimmed, and the plant repotted in fresh, dry soil.
Lack of flowering results from insufficient light or a cool dormant period. Increasing bright, indirect light exposure and ensuring cooler temperatures during winter can encourage blooms. Mature plants produce flowers from late spring to early summer.
Common pests include mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These can be managed by using a cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol to remove them. For larger infestations, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil solution can be effective.
Shriveling or wrinkling of stems can indicate underwatering or underlying root issues. While the plant stores water, consistent extreme dryness can cause dehydration. Checking the soil moisture and the plant’s roots helps determine if more frequent, yet still conservative, watering is needed or if root health needs attention.