Scientific Name
Selenicereus validus S.Arias & U.Guzmán
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Hylocereeae
Genus: Selenicereus
Origin
Selenicereus validus is native to Mexico. It grows as an epiphyte in subtropical dry forests in Guerrero, Jalisco, and Michoacán at elevations of about 1,970 feet (600 m).
Description
Selenicereus validus is an attractive cactus with green, pendant, rope-like stems with 9 to 12 ribs lined with clusters of fine, white spines. The stems grow up to 28 inches (70 cm) long and 1.2 inches (3 cm) in diameter, branching at the base. Each areole bears 17 to 23 spines.
The flowers open at night and stay open till late morning. They are up to 5 inches (22 cm) long, white and gold, and appear in warmer months. The crimson fruits are spherical, covered with white hairs, and up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 45 °F (+7.2 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Perhaps the most important aspect of epiphytic cactus care is the potting soil. Experts are strongly divided on using commercial cacti or orchid mixes, but they agree that epiphytes need well-draining potting soil with lots of air space since the roots would naturally be exposed to air. If you wish to create your own mix, start with a basic formulation of 60 percent potting soil to 40 percent perlite. Other amendments are often added, including peat, orchid bark, sand, fine gravel, and leaf mold. Aim for a pH of 5.0 to 6.0, and plan to repot every 2 to 3 years if you use ingredients that eventually break down completely, such as orchid bark.
Epiphytes do not exist in the open sun; they receive bright, filtered light in most situations. They thrive as houseplants because of their relatively low light requirements. Ideally, you should provide full morning sun and shade for the rest of the day. An east-facing window with nothing blocking it can create these conditions. Light will affect the plant's willingness to bloom, though these requirements vary widely between epiphytes. Many can be coaxed into blooming by simulating short days by placing them in dark closets for 12 or more hours at a time for 4 to 6 weeks.
Learn more at Tips for Growing Epiphytic Cacti.
Links
- Back to genus Selenicereus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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