About
Nopalxochia phyllanthoides, the pond lily cactus, is an evergreen cactus with erect, flattened stems to 40 cm producing bell- or funnel-shaped, pink flowers to 10 cm across. A rewarding and showy epiphytic cactus for a warm, sheltered greenhouse bench.
About the genus
Nopalxochia are evergreen epiphytic cacti with branching, jointed stems composed of strap-shaped, toothed segments and showy, funnel-shaped, red or pink flowers in early summer, followed by fleshy, red fruits.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toMexico
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in a slightly acid, epiphytic cactus compost in bright filtered light and moderate humidity, away from draughts. During the growing season water freely and feed with a half strength balanced liquid fertilizer monthly. Keep just moist in winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 19 - 24°C in early spring or by cuttings of stem sections
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free