About
Hylocereus undatus is a robust, branching epiphytic cactus known for its sprawling growth. Its stems are thick, jointed, and three-angled, featuring scalloped edges and fine grey-brown spines. During the summer months, it produces large, fragrant white flowers that can reach up to 30 cm in diameter. These flowers, which have narrow yellow-green outer segments, bloom at night. When pollinated, they give rise to reddish-pink fruits that are edible.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1A
Plant details
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent
- Habit
- Trailing
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Height
- 2.5-4 metres
- Spread
- 2.5-4 metres
- Time to full height
- 10-20 years
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants
- Native to
- New World Tropics
- Fragrance
- Flower
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in a warm greenhouse in peat-free, epiphytic cactus compost, in bright indirect light with high humidity. Needs plenty of space to reach its full size. Water freely when in growth and apply a half-strength liquid feed monthly, keep just moist in winter. Flowers need to be hand-pollinated if fruit is desired; they are normally pollinated by moths or bats. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation
- Pruning
- No pruning required
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, sown at 19-24°C in spring, or by stem cuttings in spring or summer
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free