Disocactus ackermannii
Ackermann's disocactus
An erect, perennial epiphytic cactus with flat thin slightly scalloped, fleshy stems, rarely 3-ribbed. The crimson to scarlet, red funnel-shaped flowers to 12cm have contrasting yellow pollen and white stigma lobes
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
AcidColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | Red | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | Red | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Disocactus are evergreen perennials with cylindrical main stems and flattened side shoots, bearing funnel-shaped, sometimes fragrant flowers on the margins, followed by fleshy white fruits
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- S Mexico
How to grow
Cultivation
Under glass grow in acidic, moisture-retentive but sharply-draining compost, or a proprietary epiphytic cactus compost, in bright filtered light and moderate to low humidity. During the growing season water freely applying a balanced fertiliser for acid loving plants at half strength every two weeks from April to end September. Water only moderately and cease fertiliser applications during the winter. In frost free areas grow in hanging baskets or epiphytically in partial shade
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 27°C as soon as ripe in acidic peat-free compost. Softwood cuttings may be taken in late spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Sub-tropical
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs under glass
Diseases
Generally disease-free, except where grown in poorly draining soils which can result in root rot
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.