Cleistocactus winteri (syn. Hildewintera aureispina) – Golden Rat Tail Cactus

Cleistocactus winteri (formerly known as Hildewintera aureispina) is a much-loved trailing cactus prized for its long, golden-spined stems and spectacular spring and summer flowers. As the stems mature, they cascade over the edge of pots and hanging baskets, creating the distinctive "Golden Rat Tail" appearance.

This vigorous species is easy to grow and rewards even beginner growers with masses of large salmon-orange flowers once established. It is one of the finest flowering trailing cacti in cultivation.

Care

• Light: Full sun to very bright light. Best flowering occurs with several hours of direct sun.
• Water: Water thoroughly during active growth, allowing the potting mix to dry between waterings. Keep considerably drier during winter.
• Temperature: Prefers warm conditions but tolerates light frost when kept dry.
• Growing Media: Free-draining cactus and succulent mix.
• Feeding: Apply a low-nitrogen cactus fertiliser during spring and summer.

Key Characteristics

• Accepted name: Cleistocactus winteri
• Synonym: Hildewintera aureispina
• Common name: Golden Rat Tail Cactus
• Long, cascading stems covered in soft golden spines
• Produces numerous large salmon-orange flowers on mature plants
• Excellent for hanging baskets and elevated pots
• Fast growing and easy to maintain
• Flowers from spring through summer under good growing conditions
• Ideal for collectors and beginners alike