Light
Bright Indirect Light
Prefers bright, indirect light or filtered sun. Protect from scorching mid-day summer sun.
Cleistocactus colademononis
Monkey's Tail Cactus
Overview
Cleistocactus colademononis, commonly known as the Monkey's Tail Cactus, is an exceptionally ornamental lithophytic cactus prized for its trailing stems covered in soft, white, hair-like spines. It is an ideal specimen for hanging baskets.
Taxonomy and Naming
Belonging to the Cactaceae family, this species was originally described as Hildewintera colademononis before being transferred to Cleistocactus 1. Synonyms include Winterocereus colademononis. The specific epithet refers to the Spanish common name 'cola de mono' (monkey's tail).
Distribution and Habitat
Endemic to Santa Cruz, Bolivia, it grows as a lithophyte on steep sandstone cliffs at elevations of 1,300 to 1,500 meters 2. It thrives in cracks of vertical rock faces, exposed to dry, windy, and sunny microclimates.
Appearance
The stems are initially erect but soon become pendulous, cascading up to 2.5 meters. They are densely covered with soft, white, flexible spines up to 8 cm long, giving them a furry appearance. It produces stunning, bright red to orange funnel-shaped flowers in spring and summer.
Cultivation
It requires bright, indirect sunlight to light partial sun to maintain dense spine growth. The potting medium must be extremely porous. Water thoroughly during the active growing season only when the soil has completely dried out, and keep dry in winter.
Common Mistakes
Overwatering and using heavy, water-retaining soils are the primary causes of root rot. Lack of adequate light results in thin, etiolated stems and sparse, dull spines.
References
Watering
7-25 Days
Water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry. Keep almost dry in winter.
Soil
Fast-draining, highly porous cactus soil mixed with plenty of pumice, coarse sand, and minimal peat.
Use an extremely porous mix rich in pumice, perlite, and coarse sand for rapid drainage.
Safety
Pet Friendly
Spines are soft but can still prick; handle with care. Non-toxic to pets.
Difficulty
Moderate
Moderate. Easy if overwatering is avoided and strong indirect light is provided.
Native Habitat
Bolivia, Santa Cruz
Endemic to the sheer sandstone cliffs of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, where it grows hanging from vertical rock faces in dry, mountainous shrublands.
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast does the Monkey's Tail Cactus grow?
Under optimal conditions, it is a relatively fast grower for a cactus, with trailing stems extending 20-30 cm per year during spring and summer.
Is it toxic to pets?
No, *Cleistocactus colademononis* is non-toxic to cats and dogs. However, its hair-like spines may cause mechanical irritation if ingested.
Why is my cactus turning yellow or soft?
Softness and yellowing are classic signs of root rot caused by overwatering or poor drainage. Stop watering immediately and check the roots.
How do I propagate it?
It is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Let the cutting dry and callous for a few days, then plant it in a well-draining cactus mix.
Do the white hairs/spines prick?
Although they look soft and furry, they contain tiny bristles that can still prick or irritate sensitive skin, so handle with care.
How do I get it to flower?
Ensure it gets ample bright sunlight in spring/summer, and provide a cool (5-10°C), dry rest period during winter to trigger blooms.
What type of pot should I use?
Hanging baskets or tall pots are best suited for its cascading growth. Always ensure the pot has excellent drainage holes.
Can I leave it outside in winter?
It can tolerate cool temperatures down to 5°C if kept completely dry, but it must be protected from freezing frosts.
How often should I repot it?
Repot only when it becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years, in early spring using fresh, porous cactus soil.
Why are the stems growing thin and pale?
This is called etiolation and is caused by insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter spot with plenty of indirect sunlight.