Selenicereus anthonyanus

Seasonally dry forest canopies of southern Mexico

Selenicereus anthonyanus is native to southern Mexico, where it climbs and trails over trees as a succulent epiphyte in seasonally dry tropical forest.

Warm humid growing periods and filtered canopy light alternate with drier intervals. Exposed roots receive rain followed by rapid drainage and airflow. Its deeply lobed flat stems spread across branches to catch filtered light. Indoors, give them support, a loose mix and protection from harsh midday sun.

Caring for Selenicereus anthonyanus

Bright shade for fishbone stems

Place it in strong filtered light. Gentle morning or evening sun is welcome. With enough light, the deeply lobed stems stay firm and can form buds. Intense midday sun can scorch their broad surface.

Water through active growth

Water thoroughly after the upper mix has dried, then drain. Keep watering more regular as fresh lobed stems appear. Leave a longer dry interval during the cooler, slower part of the year.

An open mix with room to trail

Fill a hanging pot with a light blend of bark, potting compost and pumice. Provide a broad support if the stems will climb. The long flat stems need clear space so their lobed margins are not crushed against a wall or narrow hanger.

Warmth, humidity and balanced feeding

Maintain mild to warm conditions and moderate humidity with air movement. Apply a weak feed as the lobed stems lengthen. Too much fertiliser can make new growth soft.

A brighter, slightly drier winter period

Bright conditions with slightly cooler air and less frequent watering can support bud formation. Keep the mix loose and protect it from cold, wet conditions.

Troubleshooting Selenicereus anthonyanus

A fishbone stem darkens and softens at the base

Persistent saturation has damaged the lower stem or roots. Cut back to firm tissue, replace dense mix and make sure the hanging pot drains freely.

Broad lobes turn yellow or develop dry pale patches

Hot direct sun can bleach the wide stem surface, especially after a sudden move. Shift to filtered light and introduce any stronger exposure gradually.

The flat stems become limp and wrinkled

Check the roots before watering again. A dry root ball needs a thorough soak. Wet compost with continued collapse indicates root damage.

Flower buds dry and fall

Abrupt relocation, a severe dry spell or cold wet roots can interrupt developing buds. Once buds are visible, keep light, temperature and watering reasonably steady.

White or brown pests hide in the notches

Inspect the deep lobes, stem undersides and root collar for mealybugs or scale. Isolate the plant and repeat a targeted treatment until fresh growth remains clean.

Keep Selenicereus anthonyanus away from children and pets

• Keep this plant away from children, cats and dogs.
• Its effects after chewing or swallowing are unclear, and plant material can still cause an upset stomach.
• Contact a veterinarian or medical professional if symptoms develop or do not settle.

Selenicereus anthonyanus: where the name comes from

Selenicereus combines Selene, the Greek moon goddess, with Cereus, a cactus name associated with a wax taper or candle. Anthonyanus honours American mammalogist Harold Elmer Anthony.

Nathaniel Lord Britton and Joseph Nelson Rose established the genus Selenicereus in 1909 in Contributions from the United States National Herbarium, volume 12, page 429.

Edward Johnston Alexander first described it as Cryptocereus anthonyanus in 1950 in Cactus and Succulent Journal (Los Angeles), volume 22, page 165. David Richard Hunt later placed it in Selenicereus as Selenicereus anthonyanus in 1989 in Bradleya, volume 7, page 93.