Selenicereus wercklei – Werckle’s Jungle Cactus

Unlike desert cacti, Selenicereus wercklei is a tropical epiphytic cactus with long, flattened, deeply lobed stems that cascade beautifully from hanging pots or climbing supports. Native to the rainforests of Costa Rica, it thrives in warm, humid conditions and develops an elegant, architectural appearance as it matures. Given time and the right conditions, mature plants may reward you with spectacular, fragrant white flowers that open for a single night.

Scientific Name
Selenicereus wercklei

The species is named in honour of Carl Wercklé, a German-born botanist and plant collector who spent many years studying the flora of Costa Rica.

Common Name(s)
Werckle’s Jungle Cactus, Wercklé’s Forest Cactus, Night-Blooming Jungle Cactus

Origin
Native to the tropical rainforests of Costa Rica, where it grows as an epiphyte on trees, benefiting from filtered light, excellent drainage and high humidity.

Light
Prefers bright, indirect light. It enjoys plenty of filtered light but should be protected from intense midday sun, which can scorch the stems. A little gentle morning or evening sun is beneficial.

Water
Allow the top few centimetres of compost to dry before watering thoroughly. As a rainforest cactus, it appreciates more regular watering than desert cacti but should never be left sitting in soggy compost. Reduce watering during winter.

Humidity
Thrives in moderate to high humidity, although it adapts well to average household conditions. Higher humidity encourages stronger growth and healthier stems.

Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 18–28°C. Protect from temperatures below 10°C and avoid cold draughts.

Soil
Use a free-draining epiphytic cactus mix, such as peat-free houseplant compost combined with orchid bark and perlite. Good aeration around the roots is essential.

Feeding
Feed every 2–4 weeks during spring and summer using a balanced liquid houseplant fertiliser at half strength. Stop feeding during autumn and winter.

Growth Habit
A fast-growing, trailing or climbing epiphytic cactus with flattened, lobed stems that can eventually reach well over 1 metre in length. Perfect for hanging baskets or training up a moss pole, trellis or support.

Toxicity
Not known to be toxic to pets or humans, although it is always best to prevent pets from chewing houseplants.