About
An erect, perennial epiphytic cactus with flat thin slightly scalloped, fleshy stems, rarely 3-ribbed. The crimson to scarlet, red funnel-shaped flowers to 12cm have contrasting yellow pollen and white stigma lobes.
About the genus
Disocactus are evergreen perennials with cylindrical main stems and flattened side shoots, bearing funnel-shaped, sometimes fragrant flowers on the margins, followed by fleshy white fruits
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toS Mexico
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass grow in acidic, moisture-retentive but sharply-draining compost, or a proprietary epiphytic cactus compost, in bright filtered light and moderate to low humidity. During the growing season water freely applying a balanced fertiliser for acid loving plants at half strength every two weeks from April to end September. Water only moderately and cease fertiliser applications during the winter. In frost free areas grow in hanging baskets or epiphytically in partial shade
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed at 27°C as soon as ripe in acidic peat-free compost. Softwood cuttings may be taken in late spring
Pest resistanceCan be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs under glass
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free, except where grown in poorly draining soils which can result in root rot