Rat tail cactus - Aporophyllum malisonii

Disocactus mallisonii, often mistakenly called x Aporophyllum mallisonii and nicknamed rat-tail cactus, is an epiphytic cactus appreciated for its trailing stems and large cherry red flowers that bloom in spring. Remarkable in a hanging basket, this variety brings an exotic and colourful touch to your interior. Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 5°C.

Disocactus x mallisonii belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is the result of natural (or horticultural) cross-breeding between two Mexican cacti that grow in humid forests: Aporocactus flagelliformis and Heliocereus speciosus. The correct genus name is therefore x Aporoheliocereus, although other designations such as Aporocactus x mallisonii are still used.

Its cylindrical and robust stems, which can reach 90 cm in length by about 1 cm in diameter, are strongly ribbed (3 to 5 ribs) and covered with rough thorns. Their dark green colour turns reddish under strong light. They are trailing stems. The flowers, inherited from Heliocereus speciosus, are large, of a very bright red, trumpet-shaped, and measure 7 to 8 cm in diameter. Each flower lasts 2 to 3 days, but this spring flowering is generous and lasts for several weeks. The fruits, when they appear, are slightly thorny oval berries.

The parents of Disocactus x mallisonii grow as epiphytes on trees or as lithophytes on rocks, up to 2000 m altitude, in central Mexico. This variety requires conditions similar to tropical orchids. It prefers a bright, semi-shaded exposure, with a few hours of gentle morning or late afternoon sun. The optimal temperature ranges from 10 to 27°C, with welcome day-night and seasonal variations. In winter, it is advisable to overwinter the plant at around 10°C, spacing out watering considerably. In summer, water should be plentiful, combined with frequent misting to counteract dry air.

With its shiny flowers and trailing habit, Disocactus x mallisonii is an ornamental plant that will delight cactus and exotic epiphyte enthusiasts. This variety thrives in the conservatory or a bright, not too dry interior. It looks wonderful in hanging baskets, suspended pots, or wall-mounted planters, where its long stems can grow freely. Planted in a decorative planter or on a high shelf, it forms a spectacular plant cascade. For an even more impressive effect, it can be paired with other epiphytic cacti like Rhipsalis spp. or Epiphyllum spp., as well as Tillandsias and Bromeliads that share similar requirements. Epiphytic orchids such as Phalaenopsis or Cattleya are also good companions to create a lush tropical atmosphere. To visually enrich the composition, decorative foliage plants like Peperomia rotundifolia, Ficus pumila, or Tradescantia zebrina provide an interesting contrast with their colourful and delicate leaves. A multi-level arrangement, alternating trailing and upright plants, helps maximise the decorative effect and recreate a true hanging garden.