Dog Tail Cactus

* The plant photos shown are our stock images used to represent the general appearance, size, and quality of the plant you’ll receive. Please remember that each plant is unique—natural variations in color, shape, and size are completely normal!

Light

• Needs bright, direct sunlight — ideally 6–8 hours per day.

• Indoors: place near a south- or west-facing window.

• Outdoors: gradually acclimate to full sun to prevent sunburn.

Watering

• Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly, then let soil dry completely.

• During growing season (spring–summer): water every 1–2 weeks.

• During dormant season (fall–winter): water very sparingly, only to prevent shriveling.

• Overwatering is the most common cause of cactus death.

Soil

• Requires well-draining soil.

• Use a cactus/succulent mix, or amend potting soil with sand, perlite, or pumice.

• Avoid heavy, moisture-retentive soils.

Temperature

• Prefer 70–95°F (21–35°C) during the day.

• Can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 40–50°F (4–10°C) for some species.

• Protect from frost — most cacti are not frost-hardy.

Fertilizer

• Feed during the growing season with a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer.

• Stop fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.

Potting & Containers

• Use pots with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

• Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container.

• Be careful handling spiny cacti — use gloves or tongs.

Pruning

• Remove dead, damaged, or diseased parts carefully.

• Avoid excessive pruning; most cacti grow slowly.

Propagation

• Many cacti propagate easily from cuttings, offsets, or seeds.

• Let cuttings callous for a few days before planting to prevent rot.

Pests & Problems

• Watch for mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and fungal infections.

• Root rot can develop from overwatering or poor drainage.

• Sunburn shows as bleached, white, or brown patches.

Extra Tips

• Rotate indoor cacti occasionally for even growth.

• Remove dead leaves or debris at the base to prevent pests.

• Most cacti grow slowly — patience is key.