Epiphyllum anguliger
fishbone cactus
A cactus with strap-shaped, flattened green stems that have notched edges; these leaf-like stems are initially upright before becoming more pendent as they age and elongate. Fragrant, white flowers up to 10cm across are borne in summer
Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | White | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Trailing, Columnar upright
- Genus
Epiphyllum are a genus of around 20 species of epiphytic cacti. Their rounded stems produce succulent leaf-like branches with funnel-shaped nocturnal flowers.
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Mexico
How to grow
Cultivation
In areas where temperature drops below 10⁰C, grow in epiphytic cactus compost in bright filtered light as houseplants or in a greenhouse with a minimum temperature of 15⁰C in the growing season. In warmer climates grow outside in fertile, sharply drained soil in light or dappled shade. See epihyllum cultivation for more information
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by stem cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Sub-tropical
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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