Shark Fin Epiphyllum (Epiphyllum anguliger)
The Shark Fin Epiphyllum 8" nursery pot is a very distinctive and unusual plant with several special qualities:
Unique Appearance
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Stems are flat and deeply lobed, resembling the jagged outline of a shark’s fin or the skeleton of a fish.
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The zig-zag, geometric look makes it stand out compared to most other cacti and succulents.
Exotic Flowers
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Produces large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers.
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Flowers are usually creamy white to yellowish with long petals.
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Blooms open in the evening and attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats.
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Each bloom is short-lived (about one night) but spectacular when it appears.
Epiphytic Lifestyle
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Unlike desert cacti, it is epiphytic, naturally growing on trees in the tropical forests of Mexico.
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Absorbs moisture and nutrients from air and organic debris, not deep soil.
Adaptability
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Easy to grow indoors in hanging baskets or pots.
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Cascading stems create a striking, sculptural effect.
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Prefers bright, indirect light and can thrive in average home conditions.
Collector’s Favorite
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Due to its unusual leaf-like stems and rare blooms, it’s a sought-after plant among cactus and houseplant enthusiasts.
General Information
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Scientific Name: Epiphyllum anguliger
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Common Names: Shark Fin cactus, Orchid Fern Cactus
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Family: Cactaceae
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Origin: Mexico, particularly tropical rainforests
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Growth Habit: Epiphytic cactus (grows on trees in nature without harming them)
Appearance
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Stems/Leaves: Flattened, deeply lobed, zig-zag or fishbone-shaped stems that look like a shark fin
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Size: Can grow up to 3 feet long, trailing or cascading, ideal for hanging baskets
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Flowers:
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Large, fragrant, nocturnal
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Usually white or yellow with long petals
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Blooms typically in fall under the right conditions
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Flowers last only 1–2 days but are spectacular
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Light Requirements
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Prefers bright, indirect light
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Can tolerate some direct sun (especially morning sun)
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Avoid harsh afternoon sun to prevent stem scorching
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Indoors: A bright east or west-facing window works best
Watering
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Spring–Summer (growing season): Keep soil slightly moist, water when the top 1–2 inches are dry
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Fall–Winter (resting season): Water less, allowing soil to dry more between waterings
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Avoid waterlogging—this plant dislikes sitting in soggy soil
Temperature & Humidity
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Thrives in 60–80°F (16–27°C)
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Minimum safe temperature: ~50°F (10°C)
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Likes higher humidity; mimic rainforest conditions by misting or using a humidity tray if indoors
Soil
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Needs a well-draining, airy mix
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Ideal mix: orchid bark + cactus soil + perlite/pumice
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Slightly acidic pH (5.5–6.5) preferred
Blooming Tips
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Provide cooler nights (~55–60°F / 13–16°C) in autumn
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Allow a short rest period with reduced watering before bloom season
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Avoid moving the plant once buds appear
Propagation
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Very easy from stem cuttings:
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Let cut ends callous for 1–2 days
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Place in moist, well-draining soil
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Roots form in a few weeks
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Special Notes
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Non-toxic to pets (safe for cats & dogs)
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Popular for its unique zig-zag foliage and fragrant night-blooming flowers
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Can be grown indoors year-round in hanging baskets or trained on trellises