Cleistocactus winteri (Golden Rat Tail Cactus)

Cleistocactus winteri, also known as the Golden Rat Tail Cactus, is a distinctive and ornamental cactus species known for its long, trailing stems covered in golden-yellow spines. It is highly valued for its unique aesthetic and adaptability, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets, rock gardens, and indoor collections. With its attractive flowers and easy care requirements, this cactus is a favorite among beginner and experienced gardeners.

The Golden Rat Tail Cactus Cactus is a member of the Cactaceae family, which also includes the popular Chrismas cactus, prickly pear (opuntia), pincushion cactus (mammillaria), and the iconic saguaro cactus and San Pedro cactus.

Description

Cleistocactus winteri is a perennial cactus species featuring long, cylindrical stems densely covered in fine, golden-yellow spines. These stems can trail and cascade over the edges of containers or rock formations, making it a popular plant for hanging baskets. The spines give the plant a bright and fuzzy appearance, especially in strong light. The plant is fast-growing, and its stems can quickly develop into dense clumps that add texture and volume to any garden.

Native Habitat

This cactus is native to Bolivia, where it thrives in rocky, mountainous environments at elevations between 4,200 and 4,600 feet (1,300 and 1,400 meters).

Plant Type and Habit

The Golden Rat Tail Cactus is a vigorous, columnar cactus that produces long, trailing stems, often forming dense clusters. These stems are highly flexible, allowing the plant to grow horizontally, vertically, or cascading downwards. This sprawling habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets, containers, or even cascading over rocks in a garden setting.

Plant Size

The individual stems can grow up to 5 feet (1.5 meters) long, with a diameter of about 1-2 inches (2-5 cm). As the plant matures, it forms dense, trailing clusters that can spread up to 3 feet wide (90 cm), making it an impressive feature in containers or rock gardens.

Cactus Flowers

One of the most attractive features is its bright, vivid orange to salmon-pink tubular flowers, which emerge along the length of the stems. These flowers typically measure about 2 inches (5 cm) across and create a stunning contrast against the golden spines.

This flowering cactus blooms from late spring to summer, though it may bloom sporadically throughout the year under optimal conditions. The flowers last several days and may reappear multiple times during the growing season, adding bursts of color to the plant’s already vibrant structure.

Stem and Spines

The stems are cylindrical, growing with a trailing or arching habit. They feature 16-17 ribs and closely set brown areoles. The plant’s surface is densely covered with about 50 flexible spines per areole, including 20 central and 30 radial spines. These golden-yellow to brownish spines give the stems a distinctive, bristly appearance.

Award

The Rat Tail Cactus has been recognized for its ornamental value and ease of cultivation. It has received the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), highlighting its attractiveness and reliability in cultivation.

Hardiness

This cactus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, meaning it can tolerate temperatures as low as 28°F (-2°C) for short periods. However, it prefers warmer climates and should be protected from frost. In cooler regions, it is best grown indoors or in a greenhouse during winter.

Uses

• Ornamental: This cactus is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique trailing stems and beautiful flowers. It is especially popular in hanging baskets, where the stems can cascade down, creating a striking visual effect.
• Container Gardening: Its compact root system makes it ideal for growing in containers, allowing it to be easily moved indoors during colder months.
• Rock Gardens: This cactus is also used in rock gardens and xeriscaping, where its drought tolerance makes it a valuable addition to low-water landscapes.

Wildlife

The bright orange flowers are highly attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies, which help pollinate the plant. Birds and small mammals consume the small fruits that follow the blooming period, aiding in seed dispersal.

Toxicity

This cactus is non-toxic to humans and pets. However, caution should be taken when handling the plant, as its soft spines can still cause mild irritation if touched.

Deer and Rabbits

The spiny nature of this cactus makes it naturally resistant to deer and rabbits, which tend to avoid browsing on the plant.

Drought Tolerance

The Rat Tail Cactus is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in arid conditions. It stores water in its stems, allowing it to survive extended periods without rainfall.

Invasiveness

Cleistocactus winteri is not considered invasive. It grows slowly and does not spread aggressively in cultivation or natural habitats. Its growth habit is manageable, and it does not pose a threat to local ecosystems.

Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: The long, trailing stems and vibrant flowers make this cactus a stunning ornamental plant for both indoor and outdoor settings.
• Low Maintenance: This cactus requires minimal care, thriving in well-drained soil with infrequent watering, making it an excellent choice for busy gardeners or beginners.
• Wildlife Support: The flowers attract pollinators, such as hummingbirds and butterflies, contributing to local biodiversity.

Rat Tail Cactus Care

Light Requirements

Cleistocactus winteri requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. Although it can tolerate some direct sunlight, particularly in the morning, prolonged exposure to strong midday sunlight may cause the plant to sunburn, especially in hot climates.

• Ideal light: A south-facing window indoors or a bright, sheltered outdoor spot works well. If growing indoors, provide ample light to prevent the stems from becoming thin or leggy.
• Insufficient light: If the cactus doesn’t receive enough sunlight, it may exhibit weak, stretched growth, with thinner stems and duller spines.

The cactus can be moved outdoors during the summer, but it should be gradually acclimated to avoid sunburn.

Soil

Like most cacti, the Golden Rat Tail Cactus requires a well-draining soil mix. Proper drainage is essential to prevent water from pooling around the roots, which can cause rot. A commercial cactus or succulent soil mix works well, or you can make your own by combining potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand.

• Improving drainage: To improve soil aeration and drainage, consider adding pumice, grit, or lava rock to the mix.
• Avoid heavy soils: Soils that retain moisture, such as those rich in organic material, are not suitable for this cactus as they can lead to root rot.

When potting, always ensure the container has good drainage holes.

Watering

Watering the Golden Rat Tail Cactus properly is one of the most critical aspects of its care. This species is highly drought-tolerant and prefers a cycle of deep watering followed by complete soil drying.

• Spring and Summer (growing season): Water the cactus thoroughly when the top 1-2 inches of soil have dried out. This usually means watering every 1-2 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity.
• Autumn and Winter (dormant season): Reduce watering significantly in the cooler months when the plant is not actively growing. Water only once the soil is completely dry, usually every 3-4 weeks or less, to prevent overwatering.

Overwatering is the most common mistake with cacti, leading to root rot, yellowing, or mushy stems. Ensure water can flow freely from the pot’s drainage holes, and never let the cactus sit in water.

Temperature and Humidity

Cleistocactus winteri thrives in warm, dry climates. It is best suited for USDA zones 9-11, where temperatures rarely drop below 28°F (-2°C). The plant prefers temperatures between 70–100°F (21–38°C). Although the cactus can tolerate brief dips in temperature, it should be protected from frost, which can damage its soft tissues.

During the dormant season, which is fall and winter, the ideal temperature range is 50–55°F (10-12°C). A cool rest period during this season is essential for encouraging abundant flower production.

• Indoor conditions: If you live in a cooler climate, grow the cactus in containers and move it indoors during the winter months. Keep it in a dry room with plenty of sunlight.
• Humidity: The Golden Rat Tail Cactus thrives in low humidity environments. High humidity can promote fungal infections or rot, so it’s important to ensure proper air circulation around the plant.

Fertilizing

Fertilizing your Golden Rat Tail Cactus during the growing season can enhance its growth and blooming potential. Use a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks from spring to late summer.

Pruning

Pruning is unnecessary, but it can be done to control the plant’s size or shape if desired.

Trim any overly long, leggy, or damaged stems with sharp, sterilized scissors. Cut just above an areole (the small cushion-like structures where spines emerge).

Pests and Diseases

Although the Rat Tail Cactus is generally resilient, it can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases:

Pests: Common pests include mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Check the plant regularly for signs of infestation, such as white, cottony growth (mealybugs) or yellow stippling on the stems (spider mites). Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Diseases: The most common issue is root rot, caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Ensure the soil is dry before watering and provide proper drainage to avoid this problem.

Winter Care

During the winter months, the Golden Rat Tail Cactus enters a period of dormancy, requiring cooler temperatures and minimal water.

• Reduce watering: Keep the cactus almost completely dry from mid-autumn to spring. Only water if the stems start to shrivel, as overwatering can lead to rot.
• Indoor conditions: Place the cactus in a cool, dry location with bright, indirect sunlight. If grown outdoors, protect it from frost by bringing it inside or covering it during colder months.

Common Problems and Solutions

• Leggy growth: This often occurs if the cactus isn’t receiving enough light. Move it to a brighter location to encourage thicker, stronger growth.
• Yellowing stems: This is usually a sign of overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings and ensure the pot has adequate drainage.
• Mushy or soft stems: This is a clear indicator of root rot. Remove affected areas and repot the cactus in dry, well-draining soil, watering only once the soil has dried out.

Propagating Rat Tail Plants

Propagation of the Golden Rat Tail Cactus is most commonly done through stem cuttings, which root easily.

• How to propagate: Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem and allow the cut end to dry and callous for a few days. Once calloused, plant the cutting in a well-draining cactus mix. Water sparingly until roots form, which usually takes several weeks.
• Best time: Spring or early summer is the best time to propagate for faster growth.

Potting and Repotting Rat Tail Plants

The Golden Rat Tail Cactus is somewhat slow-growing, and while it enjoys being slightly root-bound, repotting every 2-3 years is beneficial to refresh the soil and provide additional space for root growth.

When to repot: Repot in the spring when the cactus outgrows its container or when the soil becomes compacted. Choose a container that is only slightly larger than the previous one to prevent excess water retention in the soil.

Potting tip: Opt for a shallow, wide pot with good drainage holes, as this cactus has a relatively shallow root system.

When repotting, handle the stems carefully to avoid damage to the spines.

How to Get Golden Rat Tail Cactus to Bloom

To get your Golden Rat Tail Cactus to bloom, you need to provide it with the right care throughout the year, focusing on light, watering, nutrients, and temperature. Here’s how to encourage flowering:

Ensure Bright, Indirect Light

The Golden Rat Tail Cactus thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. Provide ample light throughout the day, as this is essential for flower production. Insufficient light may prevent the cactus from blooming, so bright light is crucial.

Proper Watering Routine

Water your cactus thoroughly during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. This helps the plant store energy for blooming. However, during the winter months, when the cactus is dormant, water is very sparing, keeping the soil nearly dry.

Winter Dormancy

For the Golden Rat Tail Cactus to bloom in spring, it requires a period of cool dormancy during the winter months. Follow these steps for dormancy:

• Temperature: Keep the plant in a cool location with temperatures between 50–55°F (10-12°C).
• Watering: Reduce watering drastically, keeping the soil dry during dormancy.
• Light: Provide bright but indirect light, avoiding direct sunlight that could stress the plant during dormancy.

This winter rest period is crucial for triggering blooms in the growing season.

Fertilize During the Growing Season

Feed your cactus with a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer during the growing season (spring through late summer) to encourage flowering. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks to support flower development, as phosphorus encourages blooming.

Stop fertilizing in the fall when the plant prepares for dormancy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Golden Rat Tail Cactus and Monkey Tail Cactus?

The Golden Rat Tail Cactus (Cleistocactus winteri) has golden-yellow spines and long, trailing stems, while the Monkey Tail Cactus (Cleistocactus colademononis) has softer, white spines that give the plant a fuzzy, “tail-like” appearance. The Monkey Tail Cactus is generally more hair-like and softer in texture compared to the bristly appearance of the Golden Rat Tail Cactus. Both are trailing cacti, but their spine color and texture are the key distinguishing features.

Can Rat Tail Cactus take full sun?

The Rat Tail Cactus can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the morning or late afternoon, but it should be protected from harsh midday sunlight, which can cause sunburn. It prefers bright, indirect light or a mix of partial direct sunlight with some shade.

What triggers a cactus to flower?

Cacti are triggered to flower by a combination of factors:

• Maturity: Most cacti need to be a few years old before they can bloom.
• Light: Bright, indirect light or a few hours of direct sunlight are essential.
• Temperature: Many cacti require a period of cooler temperatures in the winter to trigger flowering.
• Dormancy: A period of reduced watering and cooler conditions during winter allows cacti to enter dormancy, which often helps trigger spring or summer blooming.

How often should I water my Rat Tail Cactus?

During the growing season (spring and summer), water the Rat Tail Cactus when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry, typically every 1-2 weeks. In the winter months, water it sparingly—only when the soil is completely dry—and reduce watering to once every 3-4 weeks or less.

Can you touch a Rat Tail Cactus?

You can touch a Rat Tail Cactus, but it has sharp, bristly spines that can cause irritation or injury. It’s best to handle the cactus with care, using gloves if necessary, to avoid getting pricked by the spines.