Spineless climbing cactus from Costa Rica with pencil-thick stems and nocturnal flowers

Selenicereus wercklei is one of the more manageable members of the genus Selenicereus, a group of about thirty species of epiphytic or climbing cacti from tropical America. The genus name comes from Selene, the moon goddess in Greek mythology, and refers to the nocturnal flowering of these large-flowered cacti.

While many species in the genus have various types of spines, sometimes in dense clusters, this species is completely spineless. The pencil-thick stems grow so abundantly that the plant can even withstand some browsing. In the tropical forests of Costa Rica, one can sometimes find the path littered with pieces of the plant adorned with bite marks on the stems; troops of spider monkeys in the canopy seem to be the culprits.

Care

Thrives in bright conditions, preferably with some direct morning or evening sun. As an epiphytic cactus, it is treated more like a tropical plant than a desert cactus; allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings but do not let it dry out completely during the growing season. Use well-drained cactus or orchid soil.

Water more sparingly during winter. Fertilize with cactus fertilizer during the growing season. Ideal temperature 18-26 degrees Celsius. Perfect as a hanging plant where its long stems can be appreciated.