Chiba University Matsudo/Kashiwa Campus Plant Database

Details of genus: Aporocactus Lem. [1818]

genus_ja:

genus_en: Rat’s tail cactus

# spp.: 2

pub_year: 1860

accepted: Accepted

Family: Cactaceae

family_ja: サボテン

Infra familial classification: Subfamily Cactoideae: Tribe Hylocereeae

distribution_en: Mexico

description_en: Genus of2 species of perennial, often epiphytic cacti found in sparsely wooded areas of S. Mexico and N. Central America. They are cultivated for their trailing stems, sometimes up to 2m (6ft) long, and colourful flowers. The pencil-like, pendent, fleshy stems have low ribs and closely arranged areoles bearing short, fine spines. The irregular, tubular to funnel-shaped, diurnal, bright red or purple flowers, with stamens longer than the petals, are borne singly, mainly on more mature growth. They are followed by spherical, soft-bristly red berries, containing numerous small, reddish brown seeds. In frost-prone areas, they are excellent for hanging baskets in a temperate greenhouse or conservatory. In frost-free areas, they are best grown outdoors in hanging baskets, epiphytically, or cascading over rocks.

hardiness_en: Frost tender.

cultivation_en:

propagation_en: Sow seed at 21°C (70°F) as soon as ripe; keep just moist and provide filtered light. Root stem cuttings in early summer.

pests_en: Young or new growth is particularly vulnerable to mealybugs.

description_ja:

comment: N. temperate

comment_ja:

type_species: Aporocactus flagelliformis

Phylogenetic definition:

Update Information: Created: 2007-12-06 12:51; Updated: 2023-09-22 22:41 by hkokubun@mac.com

family: