Shark Fin Epiphyllum

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

• Stems are flat and deeply lobed, resembling the jagged outline of a shark’s fin or the skeleton of a fish.

• The zig-zag, geometric look makes it stand out compared to most other cacti and succulents.

Exotic Flowers

• Produces large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers.

• Flowers are usually creamy white to yellowish with long petals.

• Blooms open in the evening and attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats.

• Each bloom is short-lived (about one night) but spectacular when it appears.

Epiphytic Lifestyle

• Unlike desert cacti, it is epiphytic, naturally growing on trees in the tropical forests of Mexico.

• Absorbs moisture and nutrients from air and organic debris, not deep soil.

Adaptability

• Easy to grow indoors in hanging baskets or pots.

• Cascading stems create a striking, sculptural effect.

• Prefers bright, indirect light and can thrive in average home conditions.

Collector’s Favorite

• Due to its unusual leaf-like stems and rare blooms, it’s a sought-after plant among cactus and houseplant enthusiasts.

General Information

• Scientific Name: Epiphyllum anguliger

• Common Names: Shark Fin cactus, Orchid Fern Cactus

• Family: Cactaceae

• Origin: Mexico, particularly tropical rainforests

• Growth Habit: Epiphytic cactus (grows on trees in nature without harming them)

Appearance

• Stems/Leaves: Flattened, deeply lobed, zig-zag or fishbone-shaped stems that look like a shark fin

• Size: Can grow up to 3 feet long, trailing or cascading, ideal for hanging baskets

• Flowers:

  • Large, fragrant, nocturnal

  • Usually white or yellow with long petals

  • Blooms typically in fall under the right conditions

  • Flowers last only 1–2 days but are spectacular

Light Requirements

• Prefers bright, indirect light

• Can tolerate some direct sun (especially morning sun)

• Avoid harsh afternoon sun to prevent stem scorching

• Indoors: A bright east or west-facing window works best

Watering

• Spring–Summer (growing season): Keep soil slightly moist, water when the top 1–2 inches are dry

• Fall–Winter (resting season): Water less, allowing soil to dry more between waterings

• Avoid waterlogging—this plant dislikes sitting in soggy soil

Temperature & Humidity

• Thrives in 60–80°F (16–27°C)

• Minimum safe temperature: ~50°F (10°C)

• Likes higher humidity; mimic rainforest conditions by misting or using a humidity tray if indoors

Soil

• Needs a well-draining, airy mix

• Ideal mix: orchid bark + cactus soil + perlite/pumice

• Slightly acidic pH (5.5–6.5) preferred

Blooming Tips

• Provide cooler nights (~55–60°F / 13–16°C) in autumn

• Allow a short rest period with reduced watering before bloom season

• Avoid moving the plant once buds appear

Propagation

• Very easy from stem cuttings:

  • Let cut ends callous for 1–2 days

  • Place in moist, well-draining soil

  • Roots form in a few weeks

Special Notes

• Non-toxic to pets (safe for cats & dogs)

• Popular for its unique zig-zag foliage and fragrant night-blooming flowers

• Can be grown indoors year-round in hanging baskets or trained on trellises