Sun: full sun
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 10a from 30° F to 35° F (-1.1 ° C to 1.7° C) to Zone 11b from 45° F to 50° F (7.2° C to 10° C)
Winter Survival: Not cold hardy
Propagation: seeds
Flower: in the Spring or Summer
Flower Type: Red, Orange, pink
Toxic: Unknown - Tell us
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Indoors & Outdoors
Common Problems: Plants may rot if overwatered, pests
Basc Care for Disocactus (Aporocactus) flagelliformis
Watering
What you need to remember is that this type of succulents needs to be watered for every 2 weeks
One simple tip for you is that you can use some online apps to check the soil status before you go water your succulents. I would recommend the ThePlantsCheck app, it has some nice features there.
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means Unknown - Tell us. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "Rat tail cactu"
To ensure Disocactus (Aporocactus) flagelliformis grows to its fullest potential, make sure it receives plenty of direct sunlight. Aim for six hours or more of full sun a day – the ideal place would be near a sunny window or outdoors in your garden. Monitor the leaves closely; if they become pale or soft, relocate the plant to a sunnier spot.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 10a from 30° F to 35° F (-1.1 ° C to 1.7° C).
When temperatures drop below freezing, it is important to take precautions to protect Disocactus (Aporocactus) flagelliformis from the cold. Insulating and providing adequate drainage for the plant are key elements in helping it survive winter weather. Wind and sun exposure should also be minimized to prevent frost damage.
Any succulents in the group will need a medium space to grow. You can place your pot at your table or window. Since this plant needs more space than mini succulents, you should consider do not plant them together with other succulents/plants.
Propagation
Disocactus (Aporocactus) flagelliformis can be propagated from seeds. Signs of a good seed is one that is plump, dark in color and slightly sticky. To propagate X from seed, one must prepare a soil mixture of well-draining potting mix, sow the seeds evenly and lightly press them into the surface. Lastly, gently water the soil using a spray bottle and place the container in bright but indirect light.
Toxicity
Pests and Diseases
Disocactus (Aporocactus) flagelliformis can be affected common pests and diseases like most of the other succulents such as scale insects and Red spider mites.
If you do spot any of pest signs, you can treat your succulent using below methods.
- Scale insects: quarantine, clean infected plants, soapy water.
- Red spider mites: Quarantine, clean your infected plants, treatment with a systemic insecticidal/soapy water.
Besides that, to prevent serious health issues from happening, keep your succulent in a well-ventilated area and check it regularly for any signs of pests or health problems.
