Cleistocactus winteri | Monkey Tail Cactus

Cleistocactus winteri subsp. colademononis is a attractive cactus with very long white and soft, hairlike spines. The common name “Monkey’s Tail” refers to the appearance of the hairy stems. It is a vigorous, epilithic (growing on rocks) cactus, branching at the base. At first upright, then pendent and up to 8.2 feet (2.5 m) long. The stem is cylindrical, light green, up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter, completely concealed by the spines. The flowers are bright red and up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) long.