Pfeiffera monacantha
An epiphytic cactus, with spiny, upright, 3-angled stems, later becoming flattened and pendent, to 45cm long. From spring to summer it produces orange, funnel-shaped flowers to 3cm across; these arise from the areoles and may be followed by spherical, orange fruits
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
10–20 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | Orange | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Orange | ||
| Autumn | Green | Orange | ||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or North–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Pendulous weeping
- Genus
A genus of trailing, flowering cacti, found in Bolivia and northwestern Argentina with long, narrow serrated or spiny stems and creamy-white, orange or pink waxy flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Bolivia to Argentina
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in epiphytic cactus compost in bright filtered or indirect light with moderate to high humidity. Mist daily in warm weather. In growth, water freely and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser 3 or 4 times; water sparingly at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown at 19-24°C in spring; root stem sections in spring or summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- hanging basket
- Sub-tropical
- Low Maintenance
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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