Some cactus naturally grow long and then travel along the ground. It might clump at this point also. Do you know the species.. Is there an ID fo this cactus? Is there rot at the base. Is it soft down there? If there is rot, one might cut it off and heal over the cut and reroot it. BUT it could be the way it grows naturally as it ages. could it not be getting enough sunlight.

I have heard that the twisting of the ribs could mean that it is not getting enough moisture. Someone said that in reference to some twisting large cereus. I am just repeating it.

You cactus does look old. If allowed to lean and wander, it would be the kind of cactus our talented member, Caudex would love to stage in one of his incredible pots.As we age we develop character that is appreciated by some and not others. I would just make sure that it is healthy in the section above its roots.

This post was edited by wantonamara on Thu, Jun 20, 13 at 8:40

I would guess maybe Ferocactus hamatacanthus if the spines have ridges across the short dimension of the spine (called transverse ridges). The plant looks like it is planted in organic potting soil. This makes for weak roots that cannot support the plant. If you put it into fast draining mineral based soil, the roots will get stronger and be able to hold the plant in the pot. Rule of thumb: if your cactus is falling over, and will fall out of the dirt if you invert the pot, the soil is too rich and the roots are suffering. Re-pot, and by this time next year you will be able to grab the plant and lift the pot with it.