Aporocactus (Disocactus) flagelliformis
Rat Tail Cactus

Habit
A trailing epiphytic or lithophytic cactus.

Foliage
Long ribbed grey-green stems to 2cm in diameter that can grow up to 2m in length. Clusters of short reddish-yellow spines grow along the stems.

Flowers
Large magenta-pink blooms adorn the stems from late spring. It flowers profusely and will often flower on and off at various times of the year.

In warmer weather, let the plant dry out before watering again. Water thoroughly, until it is dripping out the bottom of the pot. In cold weather, water very sparingly. The soil needs to dry out completely in two or three days, if it does not, hold off the watering.

Although it prefers a position in full sun, with a little shade in the afternoon, it will also work in a partly shaded area, under a patio, in greenhouses, or next to a bright window in the house.

While a very hardy cactus that will withstand some quite extreme temperatures, water will play an important part in how well it survives.

Heat
It will tolerate heat in the high 40s without any noticeable problems, however it is important that it gets adequate water by watering as soon as the soils dries out.

Cold
It will survive cold temperatures a few degrees below 0c and is frost hardy, however, keeping the plant dry in these conditions is important.

D. flagelliformis will survive frosts, as long as the soil and plant are kept dry.

IN POTS

Potting mix
A extremely well draining mix of very coarse sand, 2-10mm pumice and/or perlite mixed with some organic compost (not peat or clay based soil) is ideal. Slightly acidic with a PH between 5 and 6.5

Pots
Choose a pot that has plenty of drainage holes in the bottom. Clay or terracotta is good, but any other pots are also fine.

Repotting
Can be repotted anytime, although best to avoid when in flower. Repot into a larger pot when it has outgrown its current one. We've found they grow fine in any size pot.

IN THE GROUND

Sand based soils, that drain freely are the best. Avoid clay (use gypsum to break up the clay and mix in plenty of compost and coarse sand if there is no other option).

Requires minimal maintenance. Remove spent flower heads and check for any signs of pests or disease.

Pests
While generally pest free, mealy bugs or scale can be a problem. Remove them when first sighted using your preferred method of pest control.

Other ailments
Root rot, or other fungal issues, usually as a direct result of over-watering, damp, cold or humid conditions. Keep the plants dry in colder seasons and in a dry environment, with plenty of air-flow.

Non toxic. However, due to the spines it is not pet or child friendly and should be kept out of reach of both. Use gloves when handling.