Disocactus speciosus (Sun Cereus)

Scientific Name

Disocactus speciosus (Cav.) Barthlott

Common Names

Sun Cereus

Synonyms

Cereus speciosus, Heliocereus speciosus

Scientific Classification

Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Hylocereeae
Genus: Disocactus

Description

Disocactus speciosus is an occasionally epiphytic cactus with erect or pendant, much-branched stems with 3 to 5 sharp wavy ribs. The stems are reddish at first but become dark green. Flowers are up to 6 inches (15 cm) long, pink to purplish-red with a green tube with reddish scales and white hairs. Edible fruits are red, oval, and up to 2 inches (5 cm) long.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zone 10b to 11b: from 35 °F (+1.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Disocactus should be grown in a rich but still well-draining soil. They should be watered regularly and fertilized as well. This is essential for good growth and flowering. During the growing period, the plants need frequent watering, and waterings should be rather abundant so that the soil becomes completely soaked, but let dry between watering. Keep relatively dry in winter or when night temperatures remain below 10° C. Disocactus dislike extreme heat and cold, so they are best green-housed during the depth of winter and heat of summer in hot, dry climates. They also prefer shade to sun and like a little extra humidity in the air. Flowering in spring and summer, the flower color varies from white, yellow, red, or purple depending on species.

Disocactus can be reproduced both by seeds and cuttings. See more at How to Grow and Care for Disocactus.