Cleistocactus colademononis
Cleistocactus colademononis, commonly known as the Monkey’s Tail cactus, is a lithophytic cactus in the family Cactaceae. It is popular due to its long, pendant stems. These are densely covered in soft, white, hair-like spines. These spines can grow several centimeters long, giving the plant a distinct shaggy or ‘furry’ appearance. Unlike many cacti, the spines are generally soft to the touch, though they still require careful handling.
Origin and Natural Habitat
This species is endemic to the Santa Cruz area of Bolivia. In its native habitat, it grows on steep sandstone rock faces, often hanging vertically from cliffs at elevations of roughly 1,300 to 1,500 meters. The long white hairs serve a dual purpose: they protect the plant from the intense high-altitude ultraviolet radiation and help trap moisture from the air in its semi-arid environment.
Plant Characteristics
The Monkey’s Tail cactus begins as an upright plant but quickly becomes pendulous, with individual stems reaching lengths of up to 2.5 meters. The stems are light green and approximately 3 cm to 7 cm in diameter. During the summer, it produces large, bright red or orangey-red tubular flowers that emerge along the length of the stems. These flowers are zygomorphic (bilaterally symmetric). The flowers are specifically adapted for pollination by hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Light
The Monkey’s Tail Cactus prefers bright, direct light or slightly filtered sunlight. While it can handle full sun to some extent, harsh midday sun can sometimes yellow the stems. To achieve the densest, whitest hair, provide as much light as possible without burning the plant.
Soil
A free-draining, gritty potting medium is required. Use a mix with extra drainage materials like pumice, perlite, and akadama.
Water
During the active growing months of spring and summer, water the plant thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out almost completely before watering again. In winter, stop watering completely.
Pot size
The Monkey’s Tail Cactus is best grown in a hanging basket or a tall pot that allows the stems to hang freely over the edges. It does not have a substantial root system, so it does not require frequent repotting.
Temperature
Cleistocactus colademononis is quite hardy and thrives in temperatures between 20°C and 35°C. It is not frost-hardy.
Humidity
This species prefers moderate humidity, but should still receive plenty of airflow.
Fertilizing
Feed the plant with a balanced, half-strength liquid fertilizer once a month during the spring and summer growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Growing season
The Monkey’s Tail Cactus grows actively during the warm months of spring and summer. Growth stops completely during autumn and winter.
Propagation
This species can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds.
Stem cuttings: Using a clean, sharp knife, take a cutting from a mature stem. Allow the cut end to callous over for at two weeks. Once the cut has calloused, plant the cutting in a well-draining cactus mix.
Seed germination: Sow seeds in a coco peat and vermiculite mix in early spring. Keep the medium moist and maintain a warm, bright environment. Cover the tray to maintain humidity required for germination. Once the seedlings germinate, gradually remove the cover to increase the airflow.
