Emm's Plant House

Cleistocactus Winteri 'Golden Rats Tail' 14cm H35cm

£44.00 GBP

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Pot Size 14cm H35cm

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Cleistocactus winteri, commonly known as the Golden Rats Tail Cactus, is a stunning and unusual cactus species native to South America. It is famous for its long, trailing stems covered in golden spines, which give it the appearance of a furry or hairy cactus. The plant produces striking tubular flowers that are often bright red or orange, making it an eye-catching addition to any cactus collection. Cleistocactus winteri thrives in bright sunlight and dry, well-draining soil.

Full Botanical Name: Cleistocactus winteri
Common Names: Golden Rats Tail Cactus
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to South America, specifically in the Andean regions of Bolivia and Argentina
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in arid, rocky regions, often found in dry, mountainous areas where it thrives in full sunlight and well-draining, rocky soils.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, direct sunlight. It can tolerate some light shade, but for optimal growth and flowering, it should be exposed to full sun for several hours each day. A sunny windowsill or outdoor location is ideal for this plant.

Ideal Room: Ideal for sunny spots such as windowsills, patios, or desert-themed gardens. It works well in containers, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.

Feeding: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can lead to weak growth, so it's best to fertilize every 6-8 weeks. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter months when growth slows.

Humidity: Prefers low humidity, typical of desert environments. It will thrive in dry indoor spaces and does not require additional moisture in the air.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C) to prevent damage.

Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. As a drought-tolerant plant, it prefers to be on the drier side. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant has good drainage to avoid water accumulation around the roots.

Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe plant for homes with animals and young children. However, its spines can be sharp, so care should be taken when handling.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A mix designed specifically for cacti ensures proper drainage and prevents water retention around the roots.

Propagation: Propagate by stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy section of the stem, let the cut end callous over for a few days, and then plant it in dry, well-draining soil. Rooting hormones can be applied to encourage faster rooting.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) long, with a spread of about 1-2 feet (30-60 cm). It forms a trailing, bushy growth habit that is perfect for hanging baskets or as part of a succulent arrangement.

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast-growing. Cleistocactus winteri can quickly grow and produce long, trailing stems, making it an excellent plant for adding vertical interest or trailing accents in plant displays.

Pests and Treatment: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract mealybugs, aphids, or scale. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap to maintain the plant’s health.

Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage to promote healthy root growth.

Pruning: Prune dead or damaged stems regularly to maintain a tidy appearance. Minimal pruning is needed for this plant, as its growth is mostly natural and compact.

Air Purification: Like many succulents, Cleistocactus winteri helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making it a beneficial addition to your home or office.

Folklore: Cacti, including Cleistocactus species, are often associated with strength, resilience, and protection due to their ability to survive in harsh environments. They are believed to bring stability and positive energy to their surroundings.

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