Selenicereus chrysocardium
| Light | Bright, filtered light; protect from harsh direct midday sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Regular in the growing season, letting the top of the mix dry; reduce in winter |
| Soil | Rich but very free-draining epiphytic mix (see Soil and potting mix) |
| Temperature | Warm and frost-free; USDA zones 10–11 |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings (primary); also seed |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to cats and dogs |
Selenicereus chrysocardium is a striking epiphytic cactus grown for its large, deeply lobed, fern-like stems and its spectacular night-blooming flowers, whose golden inner filaments give the plant its common name golden heart cactus. Long grown under the name Epiphyllum chrysocardium, it belongs to the genus Selenicereus, the night-blooming cerei, and makes a dramatic hanging-basket specimen for a warm, bright spot.
Description
Selenicereus chrysocardium produces long, flattened, strap-like stems that are deeply cut into rounded lobes along each margin, so that a mature stem resembles the frond of a fern. The stems are soft, bright green and lack true spines, arching and eventually trailing as they lengthen, which makes the plant well suited to hanging culture. A prominent midrib runs the length of each stem, and new growth emerges from the notches between the lobes.
The flowers are the highlight: very large, funnel-shaped and fragrant, they open at night and last only a single night. The outer segments are slender and pale, while the massed inner stamens are a rich golden yellow, forming the glowing "heart" that gives the species its name. As with other night-blooming Selenicereus, flowering is fleeting but memorable, and established plants may open several blooms over a season.
Distribution and habitat
The species is native to southern Mexico, where it grows as an epiphyte in humid, forested habitat. Like its relatives, it perches on tree branches and in the crotches of trunks, rooting into pockets of leaf litter and mossy debris rather than in the ground. This epiphytic lifestyle shapes its care: it wants moisture and organic matter at the roots but excellent drainage and air movement, along with the dappled, filtered light of a forest canopy rather than full, scorching sun.
Cultivation
Selenicereus chrysocardium is an undemanding grower given warmth and the right light. Plant it in a rich but very free-draining epiphytic mix — for example a cactus mix loosened with bark, coir or perlite — in a hanging basket or a pot where the stems can trail. Provide bright, filtered light; too much direct sun can scorch and yellow the soft stems, while too little discourages flowering.
During the warm growing season water regularly, letting the surface of the mix dry between waterings, and enjoy the extra humidity this species appreciates. Reduce watering over the cooler, darker months to give the plant a rest; a slightly cooler, drier winter can help encourage the following season's blooms. Feed lightly during active growth. See Watering and Repotting for general technique.
Propagation
The easiest method is by stem cuttings. Take a healthy section of stem, allow the cut end to callus for a few days, then insert it into a lightly moist, free-draining mix until it roots. Cuttings root readily in warm conditions and reach flowering size relatively quickly. The species can also be raised from seed, though this is slower and less common in the hobby. See Propagation — cuttings for a full walkthrough.
Common problems
- Rot — soft, mushy patches usually follow overwatering or a mix that stays wet; ensure sharp drainage and let the surface dry between waterings.
- Scorch — harsh direct sun bleaches or browns the soft stems; move the plant into brighter shade.
- Shy flowering — too little light, or no cooler winter rest, is the usual reason a healthy plant refuses to bloom.
- Pests — mealybugs and scale can shelter along the stem notches; see Pests and diseases.
See also
- Selenicereus — the genus overview
- Propagation — cuttings · Soil and potting mix · Watering · Repotting