|
Habitat:
Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica,
the Antilles, and some northern regions of South America. The genus is
spread over tropical areas with a humid, jungle-like climate.
Description: a genus of forest epiphytic cacti with vigorous, often
triangular and runner-like stems that produce numerous aerial roots. The
very large flowers, up to 30 cm (12 in) in width, may be either diurnal or
nocturnal. They differ from Selenicereus in having the stem with few
ribs and the absence of hairs or spines on the exterior of the flower. They
can be simply referred to as Cereus.
Soil: fertile mix.
Location: choose a bright site but avoid direct light.
Temperature: the minimum temperature should not drop below 8°C
(46°F); best around 10-12°C (50-54°F).
Water: from spring to autumn provide
water as soon as the soil becomes dry. In the winter, water should be
applied only if the plant starts withering, this being more likely if the
temperatures stay on the warm side.
Cultivation tips: the long stems of these cacti requires the support
of a trellis and large containers in order to flower well since they resent
frequent transplanting. Fertilize once a month; they may be used as
rootstocks.
Main species: H. undatus, a species from Haiti, can attain
considerable size and develops aerial roots. It has jointed, three-winged
stems and white flowers similar to those of Selenicereus. It does not
tolerate cold temperatures and is often used as rootstock for grafting;
H. calcaratus; H. nopaloensis; H. ocamponis.
   |
|
