Scientific Name
Disocactus anguliger (Lem.) M.Á.Cruz & S.Arias
Common Name(s)
Fishbone Cactus, Moon Cactus, Queen of the Night, Ric Rac Orchid Cactus, Zig-Zag Cactus
Synonym(s)
Epiphyllum anguliger, Epiphyllum anguligerum, Phyllocactus anguliger
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Hylocereeae
Genus: Disocactus
Origin
Disocactus anguliger is native to Mexico. It grows as an epiphyte in evergreen forests in Oaxaca, Guerrero, Michoacán, Jalisco, and Nayarit at elevations between 3,600 and 5,900 feet (1,100 and 1,800 m).
Description
Disocactus anguliger, formerly known as Epiphyllum anguliger, is a much-branched cactus with smooth, green, often woody primary stems and flat, fleshy, deeply lobed branches. The lobes are rectangular or slightly rounded. The branches are initially upright, becoming more pendent as they age and elongate, and can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) long and 2 inches (5 cm) wide.
The flowers are white or pale yellow and appear in summer, opening in the night and exuding a strong, sweet scent. They can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in length and 3 inches (7.5) cm in diameter. The fruits are greenish or yellowish with green pulp and tiny black seeds. They are oval and can grow up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10b to 11b: from 35 °F (1.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Many of the cultivated plants known as Epiphyllum hybrids are derived from crosses between species of Disocactus (rather than Epiphyllum) and other genera in the Hylocereeae.
Disocactus should be grown in 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. The watering 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 50 °F (10 °C).
These cacti 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.
Disocactus can be reproduced both by seeds and cuttings.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Disocactus.
Links
- Back to genus Disocactus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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