Aporocactus - Rat's Tail Cactus

(Aporocac'tus)

DESCRIPTION: This group of epiphytic cacti is native to Mexico. Growing on trees and in rocky crevices in their native habitats, these cacti are excellent for growing in hanging baskets. Commonly known as Rat's Tail Cactus, they consist of long, pendulous, slender stems that are clothed with small tufts of reddish-brown, bristly spines. The stems can reach several feet in length. Rat's Tail Cacti bear tons of vividly colored blossoms in early spring. The flowers are produced on the previous year's growth. A. flagelliformis is a pretty variety whose thin stems, about 1/2-inch thick, grow about 12 inches a year. This cactus bears long-necked, double, cerise-colored flowers, 2 to 3 inches across. These are sometimes followed by small, red berries. A. flagelliformis var. flagriformis is another pretty species bearing dark carmine-pink flowers and red berries.

POTTING: Rat's Tail Cacti are very easy to grow, being suitable for a greenhouse and container, indoors or out. These plants need a minimum temperature of 43º F. They should be grown in bright, indirect light, in a fairly rich potting mix. The best compost consists of four parts sandy loam, and one part of equal quantities of sand and crushed brick. Repotting is done in April when their roots become cramped. They should be repotted every other year because their soil tends to sour. This doesn't mean, however, that they'll need larger pots. A quarter of the pot should be filled with crocks and covered with coarse leaves. Firm the soil with a potting stick. Don't apply any water until the soil becomes almost dry. Once the plants are established, keep the compost moist from April to October; less water is required from November until March, just enough to keep the stems from dying back. In the winter, old or discolored stems may be cut out at the base to encourage new growth.

PROPAGATION: Seeds or cuttings may be used for propagation.

VARIETIES: A. flagelliformis & var. flagriformis; A. martianus & var. conzatianum.

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