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Dragon Fruit Cactus

Selenicereus undatus

Epiphytic / Holiday Cacti (Schlumbergera, Rhipsalidopsis, Disocactus)Mood Meter: Needs a Little Love

Also called: Dragon Fruit, Pitaya, Pitahaya

Scientific Name History

Current accepted name: Selenicereus undatus

Previously or alternatively classified as: Hylocereus undatus

How to identify it

Long fleshy green climbing stems are usually three-winged or triangular in cross-section with scalloped margins and aerial roots at nodes; mature plants can produce very large night-opening white flowers.

Growing characteristics

Growth habit: climbing epiphytic cactus. Drought tolerance: moderate.

Climbing cactus with aerial roots; more moisture-tolerant than desert cacti but still needs an airy root zone.

Plant Mood Meter: Needs a Little Love

It grows vigorously with warmth and strong light but needs much more physical support and root volume than typical small houseplant cacti.

Care guide

Light

Very bright light with some direct sun. Direct sun: Several hours of direct sun are useful after acclimation.

Water

Water thoroughly after the airy mix has substantially dried; do not keep permanently dry like a desert cactus, but never leave roots stagnant.

Soil / substrate

Chunky, fast-draining epiphytic cactus mix with bark and mineral aeration.

Humidity

Average to moderate humidity is suitable with airflow.

Support / growth

Provide a sturdy trellis, post, or other structural support capable of carrying heavy mature stems.

Problems Planticist can help with

UnderwateringOverwatering / poor aerationRoot rot / impaired rootsExcess light / sun scorchInsufficient light (etiolation)Normal lower-leaf senescencePest damageFertilizer / mineral salt buildup

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