Rat-tail Cactus: A Spectacular Addition
photo by m free!The Rat-tail Cactus is adored by some and despised by others. I had been admiring this wild, medusa-like plant in a neighborhood nursery for the longest time and finally decided to buy it for myself. I was honestly turned off by the plant at first sight but found myself drawn to the thing every time I would visit the nursery. I now have my Rat-tail hanging outside my kitchen window in a sunny spot, but they should be given dappled shade in hotter climates. In their native Mexican habitat, these cacti grow in trees where they are shaded by branches and leaves. >>More Care and Growing Info
I didn’t include my less-than-spectacular Rat-tail Cactus photo because he is a little lopsided at the time and not as handsome as these photos. However, feel free to visit the Nest In Style Photo Group to see my new cactus addition.
photo by m freeWhat’s the Wildest Plant You’ve Ever Brought Home?
I can see why you brought this home. it is incredible.
@Phillip
Thanks for the visit Phillip! The summer has slowed down the blogoshpere around here. I bet you are very busy this season. I absolutely love my rat-tail!!!
Jayme,
I just got one myself and I love it. I’m curious on how to use the one I purchased to start others. Do you know where I can find thorough information on the rat tail? Thanks.
@Martin,
First off, thanks for the visit and the time to make a comment. I would love to see a photo of your rat-tail. If you have time, join my Nest In Style photo group to share some of your plant favorites.
About your question…I included a link in my original post about more growing info. Once on the growing info page, scroll down to the PROPAGATION section. Checkout this article if you have never used stem cuttings before. (HINT: the “green” words throughout my site are links to more information)
Hi Jayme! I just found your blog courtesy of Debra Prinzig and will definitely be back. Craziest plant I ever brought home? A bat plant. Though I’m sad to say it died a quick death. I think it had fungus gnats when I got it.
@Kim,
Thanks for the visit Kim. Do you personally know Debra? I was able to meet her at the Hardy Plant Society meeting. Great person! Just visited your blog and that bat plant is so cool lookin’!
Jayme
Can anyone tell me why my Rat Tail is turning brown? One long stem can be green at the top, brown in the middle and green at the tip. It is turning browner and browner. I am sick that it might die.
Thanks,
Barb
Hi Barb,
First off, thanks for the visit and taking the time to ask a question. Without know a whole lot about your location, weather conditions, plant placement and so forth, it sounds like cactus root rot. Here is a link for more information about cactus diseases and what causes them.
http://www.cactusmuseum.com/diseases.asp
Good luck and I hope your rat tail can be saved!