Cleistocactus colademononis, commonly known as Monkey's Tail, is a unique cactus known for its long, furry stems that resemble animal tails. It is native to the eastern foothills of the Bolivian Andes. This species is sometimes considered to be a subspecies of Cleistocactus winteri, referred to as Cleistocactus winteri subsp. colademono.
Taxonomy of Cleistocactus colademononis
Scientific Name
Cleistocactus colademononis (Diers & Krahn) Mottram (Monkey's Tail)
Synonym(s)
Bolivicereus colademononis, Borzicactus colademononis, Cleistocactus winteri subsp. colademono, Hildewintera colademononis, Winterocereus colademononis
Common Name(s)
Monkey's Tail, Rat Tail
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Trichocereeae
Genus: Cleistocactus
Etymology
The generic name "Cleistocactus" (pronounced "Kly-stoh-KAK-tus") means "closed cactus" and refers to the narrow, tubular flowers that remain nearly closed, with only a small opening at their tips.
The subspecific epithet "colademononis" (pronounced "koh-luh-dee-mon-OH-nis") comes from the Spanish cola de mono, meaning "monkey's tail," which is the vernacular name for this subspecies in Bolivia. It refers to the hanging stems of this subspecies, covered with dense white, hair-like spines that give them a fuzzy, tail-like appearance.
Description of Cleistocactus colademononis
Cleistocactus colademononis, also known as Cleistocactus winteri subsp. colademono, is an attractive cactus with light green, cylindrical stems densely covered with white, hair-like spines. It branches at the base and grows as an epilithic cactus on rocks in its natural habitat. The stems can grow up to 8.2 feet (2.5 m) long and 2.8 inches (7 cm) in diameter, starting upright and becoming pendulous with age. The common name Monkey's Tail refers to the appearance of the stems.
The bright red flowers appear from late spring to early fall. They can reach up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. The reddish, more or less spherical fruits contain black seeds and can grow up to 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) in diameter.
Origin of Cleistocactus colademononis
Cleistocactus colademononis is endemic to Bolivia. It occurs in the province of Florida, in the Santa Cruz Department, about 30 kilometers east of Samaipata—a small town in the eastern foothills of the Bolivian Andes. This species typically grows hanging down from humid, steep rock faces.
How to Grow and Care for Cleistocactus colademononis
Light: Cleistocactus colademononis thrives in bright light and tolerates several hours of direct sunlight, particularly in the morning or late afternoon. To prevent sunburn, protect it from intense midday and afternoon sunlight during hot summer months. If grown indoors, place the cactus near a bright, sunny window and rotate the pot occasionally to promote even growth. If possible, move the plant outdoors during the warmer months, gradually acclimating it to increased sunlight.
Soil: This cactus grows best in loose, well-draining soil that lets excess water drain quickly. You can use a commercial cactus soil mix or create your own.
Temperature: Cleistocactus colademononis enjoys warm temperatures during its active growing season and cooler, drier conditions in winter. It is hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b-11b, which have average annual extreme minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25°F to 50°F (-3.9°C to 10°C).
Watering: Water thoroughly from spring through early fall, letting the soil dry out completely between waterings. As temperatures decrease and growth slows, gradually reduce watering. During winter dormancy, keep the plant mostly dry, especially if it's in cooler conditions. If overwintered in a warm environment, it may need occasional light watering to prevent excessive shriveling. Avoid waterlogging, as prolonged moisture can cause root rot.
Fertilizing: Cleistocactus colademononis has relatively low fertilizer requirements. During the active growing season, apply a diluted cactus fertilizer, preferably low in nitrogen and relatively high in potassium, once every four to six weeks if needed. Avoid excessive fertilization, which can encourage weak growth. Stop fertilizing during winter dormancy.
Repotting: Repot Cleistocactus colademononis every two to three years, or when it outgrows its container or the potting mix deteriorates. Spring is generally the best time for repotting. Choose a pot with drainage holes, handle the trailing stems carefully to avoid damage, and allow any injured roots to heal before watering.
Propagation: Cleistocactus colademononis is easy to propagate from stem cuttings. You can also propagate it from seeds. Spring and summer are the best seasons for both methods. To propagate from cuttings, remove a healthy stem section and allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for several days before planting it in a well-draining cactus mix. Keep the substrate only slightly moist until roots develop. For seed propagation, sow seeds on the surface of a suitable seed-starting mix and keep temperatures warm, light indirect, and moisture consistent until germination.
Learn more in "How to Grow and Care for Cleistocactus."
Toxicity of Cleistocactus colademononis
Cleistocactus colademononis is considered non-toxic to humans and pets, but keep it out of reach of pets and children because of its sharp spines.
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Internal Links
- Explore all plants within the genus Cleistocactus.
- Explore all plants within the family Cactaceae.