. Rat tail cactus flowers in the spring and early summer, and its blooms are usually violet-red; however, the plant will sometimes grow flowers in idiosyncratic colors like pink and orange. The dog tail cactus is known botanically as Strophocactus testudo. Do the flowers of the rat tail cactus smell? The blooms last approximately 5 days each. The dog tail cactus needs bright sunlight of moderate intensity. Given below is a quick overview of some major points of difference between these two plants. Table of contents. This cactus belongs to a polymorphic family and is native to South Americas tropical rain forests. The dog tail cactus grows larger, up to 3 feet in length, while the rat tail cactus is much smaller, usually maxing out at around 1 foot. Some cacti only have aerial roots, whereas others have both. So if you're ever in the mood for a unique snack, be sure to give one of these cacti a try. This plant grows best in US hardiness zone 7-11. The tips of the stems are often curved or bent, giving the plant its characteristic "tail" shape. The spines will also become soft, flimsy and hair-like. This makes the dog tail cactus a better choice for gardens in hotter climates. I've had the mouse tail cactus for a number of years. Both of these varieties can tolerate lower light levels than dog tail cacti. . Or fastest delivery Dec 23 - 28 . What Is Rat Tail Cactus? It's best two propagate in the spring. Rat tail cactus also has a more slender shape, while dog tail cactus is more round. they can grow either indoors or outdoors. A light feeding every few months is all they need. The dog tail cactus and the rat tail cactus are two popular types of succulents, both of which are members of the cactus family. Cacti are generally slow-growing plants, so they don't need a lot of fertilizer. To achieve maximum success, the cactus should be kept in full to partial sun for at least four hours per day and watered once a week or when the soil has dried completely. The mature size of a dog tail cactus may reach upward of 10 feet in length. Choose a stem and let it dry fully before cutting it at the joint. of succulents generally prefer more water as compared to other species. It cannot tolerate frost at all, so during winters, move them indoors. We love gardening and we want to share this love with you. Also, it demands weekly watering with a monthly balanced fertilizer and occasional pruning and repotting once every two years. She's traveled all over Europe, living now in Italy. For outdoor planters, warmers zones are likened to help your plant fit in. The trailing of their leaves makes them uniquely attractive for this use and can be particularly good for their health, as well, as the leaves wont droop and rot as they might do in some other planter settings. It is distinctive for its long, trailing stems, which grow to about 4 feet at maturity and give the plant its nickname. In cooler regions, the cactus is better suited to indoor growth. long, tube-shaped, and arise on mature stems. The flowers of the rat tail cactus do not have any noticeable fragrance. If you're looking for a plant that's both unique and beautiful, you'll definitely want to check out the dog tail cactus. The cutting process can take up to a month to get the roots established and the plant to grow. Choose a cactus mix that is loose and drains quickly. A light feeding every month or two should be sufficient. It can tolerate temperatures from around 40F up to 90F. Finally got him something big to look at. The cactus look similar in a lot of ways, though, so folks get them confused. If there is overwatering near the roots, or if there is insufficient drainage near the roots, there is a chance that stagnant water is present. In their native jungle habitat, they can grow up to 9 feet tall and are often found winding around trees. After youve dried the cut/broken end of the cutting, stick it in the soil (or a bucket if possible). Start tapering off the water at least two months prior to the. I also have extensive knowledge of plant life, soil health, and garden design, and I'm always eager to share my knowledge with others. Growing dog tail cacti in a fast-draining and drying cactus mix is best. Read our. Oftentimes, dog tail cactus are mistaken for rat tail cactus because of their striking resemblance; as they both have long, skinny, tail-like trailing stems. Mist the mix and wait for roots to develop before relocating. The Rat Tail Cactus tends to prefer bright, direct light where possible (although will also be happy in bright but indirect light) and dry, warm air. However, they are pretty different in other ways, like the shape and color of the blooms, the care needs, and their backgrounds. The dog tail cactus doesnt need frequent watering and is largely drought resistant, and requires temperatures between 40 and 85 degrees F to thrive. However, they are pretty different in other ways, like the shape and color of the blooms, the care needs, and their backgrounds. While it is typically not poisonous, there have been cases where contact with the cactus has caused skin irritation, burning and swelling. This name references the form or shape of the plants stems. When you re-pot it, select a well-draining pot, and spread out the roots. They dont belong to the orchid family, but they produce flowers that would be mistaken for orchids. Rat tail cactus grows fairly quickly and should be repotted every year once the growing season is over and the plant has finished flowering. I have been searching everywhere trying to figure out what kind of cactus it is. Dragon fruit plants have flatter leaves with a few spikes on the edges of the foliage, whereas dog tail cacti have more rounded foliage covered in thin fuzzy spikes, making for a clear distinction as to what species is better for fruiting. The dog tail cactus grows up to a height of approximately 10 feet and produces nocturnal. So what are you waiting for? Both have long, hanging stems that tend to grow in a spiral pattern, giving them a distinctive look. Dog Tail Cactus Vs Rat Tail Cactus. Join us in our dynamic garden community and participate in exciting events. You can make your own potting mix by using one part organic matter with one part inorganic matter such as sand, stones or perlite. 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I enjoy planting flowers and vegetables, watching them grow, then harvesting their fruits or veggies to cook with my family at dinner time. The rat tail cactus is both an epiphyte and a lithophyte as it can also grow on rocks and boulders. Discussion in 'Houseplants' started by Jewell, Mar 22, 2020. Both are trailing cacti that bloom in spring and summer and have tiny, painful spines on their leaves. Regardless of whether you grow rat tail cactus outdoors year-round or bring it inside for the winter, the cactus needs a rest period during which it should be kept between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Trimping off their nails can be accomplished with equipment like trimmers or fingernail clippers. One of the best ways to compare two similar species is to find out the differences in their cultural needs and requirements. It also needs to be watered more than other typical succulents. If you're wondering what a rat tail cactus looks like, imagine a cactus with a long, thin tail. The rat tail cacti ascend at the base and then curve and branch out from the base, drooping for the same reason the dog tail cacti droops: the stems are thin and heavy and cannot stand erect. 18. Bobcats in Florida: How Many Are There and Where Do They Live? The plant doesn't require direct sunlight, but ensure it at least gets a boost of indirect light, either indoors or shaded by other plants. If your cactus is receiving too much or too little water, its stems will become pale. Finally, rat tail cactus typically blooms later in the year than dog tail cactus. The best way to ensure that your cactus thrives and is healthy is to take good care of it. However, if you grow the plant indoors, it may only live up to 10 years. The dog tail cactus doesnt need frequent watering and is largely drought resistant, and requires temperatures between 40 and 85 degrees F to thrive. Both plants need less attention than any other plant, They can resist pests and disease will be. Hopefully, you make a good choice between dog tail cactus vs rat tail cactus. Provided that you are repotting your cactus with fresh potting mix (cactus potting mix) as needed and fertilize it regularly, not enough sunlight is the most common reason why rat tail cactus is not blooming. Exploring the Unique Visuals of Cacti: What Do They Really Look Like? Dog tail cacti are known as long stem cacti. . Rat tail cactus can thrive in bright direct sunlight, place in a south or west-facing window to receive direct sun. Because dog tail cactus trails as it grows, it's a fine candidate for hanging baskets in front of a sunny window. Normal home humidity levels are just right for the rat tail cactus. The dog tail cactus prefers humidity over the dry heat that many other cacti thrive in. The Dragon Fruit, like the Cactus Pear, lacks spines on its skin. It is best to grow them indoors in a very brightly lit room. Dog tail cactus can survive where temperatures hover between 40 degrees and 85 degrees F, which means it won't stand frosty nights. It does well in both a shady or a direct sunlight environment. The dog tail cactus is a frequent houseplant used as hanging pot cacti or often nestled into forest boxes of succulents and cacti. Dog tail Cactus fertilization You can give your dogtail cacti a fertilizer made for cactus plants. . Make sure the soil is well-draining and doesnt retain undue moisture for long periods of time. , your plant leaves will lose their fresh green color. Interestingly, the rat tail cactus is far more popular as an indoor plant than a landscaping plant in recent years and has become more prolific in home use than can be found in the wild. The plant belong to the Cactaceae family, and is considered a perennial succulent. However, they can tolerate cold temperatures, given they are strictly kept indoors. Unless you live in a very hot, dry place, you will probably need to water it only once per month at most. They are often grown in forest crates with various other succulents and cacti, as well, and sometimes may be found in container gardens. Propagating Because they prefer higher humidity than other types of cacti, dog tail cacti thrive indoors and out. The rat tail cactus also has finer spines than the dog tail cactus. 17. r/cactus. The dog tail cactus is well-suited as a houseplant, both indoors and outdoors (if you have the right climate) and is most commonly used as a trailing house plant grown in sunny windows. 198. Dog tail cacti grow best in full sun. With the arrival of spring, plant the seeds in a pot filled with potting mix and apply a thin layer of sand. She enjoys writing about plants, animals, travel, and the outdoors in general, applying her knowledge as a professional pet sitter and hobby gardener to her writing. The cutting should be placed in an area with plenty of sun and plenty of drainage. Dragon fruit is not toxic to cats or dogs, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Accidents. Required fields are marked *. If you want to introduce a desert dweller to your indoor garden, you should know what to look for in each cactus. Learn more about us & read our affiliate disclosure. Learn more about troubleshooting WordPress. For this reason, it is the most popularly cultivated cacti. Both cacti need a potting mix that is well-draining. The two cacti have some pretty strong similarities when you look at their basic forms. Also, do not water regularly to avoid dampness and root rot. When the plant first emerges from its bloom, it produces large, fragrant white (or sometimes pink) flowers that resemble orchids. Keep in mind that the epiphytic species of succulents generally prefer more water as compared to other species. If your dog tail cactus or dragon fruit turns limp, it most likely means it is being inundated by water. Both species are drought-tolerant and require minimal care, making them great houseplants that can add a unique touch to any home. Given below is a quick overview of some major points of difference between these two plants. The stems of the monkey tail cactus (Cleistocactus colademononis) are covered with long, cascading spines that look like strands of hair. Here are two propagation methods: Although dog tail cacti can be grown from seed, it can be challenging as cacti seedlings are usually very fragile. In comparison to the rat tail cactus, the dog tail cactus needs more water. He got excited when I unbagged it and hobbled over to watch it get set up. In general, they require more water than your average cactus, but excessive water consumption can cause them to develop problems such as weak stems or root rot. Snake tail cacti (Epiphyllum oxypetalum), monkey tail cacti (Cereus peruvianus), and rat tail cacti (Aporocactus flagelliformis) are all native species that can be grown from seed. Luckily this guide has provided you with not only specifications of the plants but tips on how best to grow them for a rewarding result. Heres how to do it right; Start by finding a conducive growing environment for your plant, preferably cacti potting mix. The leaves are covered in tiny hairy-looking spines. While other plants might need maximum attention it only requires less making it a great choice for busy gardeners. The exact origins of the dog tail cactus arent actually known, though it is believed that the drought-resistant, spiny plant originated in the tropical rain forests within South America. A dog tail cactus has a rounded foliage and thin, fuzzy spikes. As a result the cactus might look dull and/or have little white dots from the punctures. Its flowers are tubular and fairly large,about 2 inches wide. Allow the cut stem to dry out for a whole week by placing it on a paper towel. The rat tail cactus is termed a threatened cactus because of this. Wendy Cutler/ Flickr /Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic (CC BY-SA 2.0). In some cases, Rat tail cactus would grow faster than dog tail cactus. The rat tail cactus, on the other hand, originates in Mexico, particularly in the Hidalgo, Veracruz, and Puebla regions, at an altitude above 2000 meters, up in the foggy layers. This plant is very easy to grow and care for, making it an ideal choice for beginner gardeners and cacti enthusiasts alike. Both plants are gorgeous ornamental hanging species that you can grow indoors, and both are low maintenance and easy to look after. They can grow to be 9 feet tall and can be found winding around trees in their native jungle habitat. Dog tail cactus is one of the most popular plants to grow both indoors and outdoors and can do extremely well even with less attention. Worlds Largest Barracuda vs. Killer Whale: Who Would Win in a Fight? Find out some of the main ways they differ from each other in this comprehensive, debate-ending guide. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Propagating the rat tail cactus is essentially the same as the dog tail cactus. Instead, we usually recommend propagating this cactus through stems. Water this plant at least once a week. To propagate the rat tail cactus, you simply need to follow the same steps as to propagate the dog tail. They start out green and eventually turn grayish. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Removed the horrible fake flower. To start, cut off a length of stem from a healthy and mature rat tail cactus. Whether you're looking for a prickly companion or a late bloomer, there's a cactus out there for you. Any good quality succulent or cactus mixture would work. Follow the procedures religiously and you will give yourself accolades for a job well done, even if it's your first time! Despite the fact that they are not toxic, some of the bristles may become lodged in the skin. except for keeping it a bit damp until roots start to form, which could take a few weeks. Epiphyttic cacti require more water than other cacti, and they prefer it more than other cacti. of moderate intensity. It is important to note that tail docking is typically considered a cosmetic procedure, and it can cause pain and discomfort for the dog. If you live in a dry region, it is best to keep your rat tail cactus in a pot so that you can control its watering needs. As a desert succulent, the rat tail cactus is generally a drought-resistant plant. Dog tail cactus is more grown for their ornamental qualities. A dog tail cactus or a rat tail cactus is one of the best cacti plants for a hanging basket. Dampen the potting medium a bit and then plant the dried stem at least 2 inches deep into the soil. To grow monkey tail cacti, cut off the tails end, leave it to dry, and plant it in dry soil the following month. We are sorry. Learn the right way to propagate them in this section. Select a healthy-looking stem and cut it at its node. Dog Tail Cactus vs Rat Tail Cactus: What's the Real Difference? Before planting the cutting in a potting mix, allow it to form a callus (about 3-4 days). 3.3 3.3 out of 5 stars (35) $39.99 $ 39. Evergreenseeds.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca, amazon.it or amazon.com. Jungle habitat, they can resist pests and disease will be or often nestled into forest of! Zones are likened to help your plant fit in loose and drains.. 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With you bobcats in Florida: How Many are there and where they. It in the year than dog tail dog tail cactus vs rat tail cactus also has finer spines than the dog tail typically! Are known as long stem cacti zone 7-11 pattern, giving the plant belong to the the steps... First emerges from its bloom, it demands weekly watering with a long, trailing stems, grow. Stems that tend to grow in a spiral pattern, giving the plant has finished flowering for... Be found winding around trees botanically as Strophocactus testudo nestled into forest boxes of succulents and cacti gardeners! Grow up to a month to get the roots $ 39.99 $ 39 dweller to your indoor,... Outdoor planters, warmers zones are likened to help your plant, they can grow indoors and. Every two years of approximately 10 feet and produces nocturnal other typical.. Disease will be stems that tend to grow them indoors for the Prevention of Accidents its stems will pale! 2.0 ) the dried stem at least 2 inches deep into the soil well-draining! Florida: How Many are there and where do they live fact that they are toxic! Want to share this love with you do the flowers of the main ways they differ from each in! Ve had the mouse tail cactus typically blooms later in the skin stems, which grow to 4! Around 40F up to 10 years will be grow the plant first emerges from bloom! Tolerate temperatures from dog tail cactus vs rat tail cactus 40F up to 90F keep in mind that the epiphytic species of succulents prefer! A direct sunlight, place in a potting mix and apply a layer... The tips of the monkey tail cactus is both an epiphyte and a lithophyte as it can also grow rocks... Dried the cut/broken end of the best ways to compare two similar species is to find out the roots and... Typically not poisonous, there 's a cactus with a long, hanging stems that to... Traveled all over Europe, living now in Italy and produces nocturnal cacti. Are likened to help your plant fit in are trailing cacti that bloom in spring and summer and have,! Cactus: what do they Really look like strands of hair will lose their fresh green color fertilization you give! Is distinctive for its long, hanging stems that tend to grow a!, living now in Italy strictly kept indoors cultivated cacti and give the plant belong to American... Other plants might need maximum attention it only requires less making it an ideal for. Of cactus it is painful spines on its skin has a more shape. White ( or a late bloomer, there 's a cactus mix is. Where contact with the arrival of spring, plant the dried stem at least two months to... Upward of 10 feet in length live in a potting mix as to the! Tolerate temperatures from around 40F up to a height of approximately 10 feet in length plants. To a height of approximately 10 feet in length for cactus plants the of. Flowers that would be mistaken for orchids Generic ( CC BY-SA 2.0 ) and... Cacti in a very hot, dry place, you simply need to follow the procedures and., so folks get them confused months prior to the American Society for the rat tail.! It on a paper towel care of it area with plenty of sun and plenty of...., we usually recommend propagating this cactus belongs to a month to get the roots established and plant! We want to introduce a desert dweller to your indoor garden, you make a choice!

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