Family: Cactaceae

Native to Mexico, these epiphytic cactuses have round, bushy main stems and flat branches with wavy edges. The rather large, self-sterile, funnel-form flowers are diurnal. These cactuses are useful for growing in baskets.

Species

N. phyllanthroides has a profusion of rose pink flowers. Cultivar 'Deutsche Kaiserin', also with rose pink flowers, is a popular choice The many cultivars are more spectacular in bloom than the species.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in an intermediate greenhouse or conservatory or as house plants. These cacti are good in hanging containers, but can be grown in ordinary pots. They need an acid, soilless potting compost which must be very well drained. Provide good light (but shade from direct sun), and a humid atmosphere. Water plants normally during the growing season, but keep only slightly moist in winter. Propagate from cuttings of the stem sections in summer, or from seed in spring, both in a warm propagating case.

Climate

At least zone 10.