Disocactus ackermannii is part of the Cactaceae family and its native range is S. Mexico. Its flattened stems are fleshy, eventually becoming pendant when they reach about 20-40 cm long. They have prominent middle and side veins, with crenate margins (scalloped edge). When the plant matures it produces large showy, red flowers. Genus name comes from the Greek ‘dis’ meaning twice, this is in reference to the inner and outer flower segments being of the same length. Light: Bright indirect light, meaning the plant sees the sun for 0-4 hours per day - this could be through trees or a translucent curtain, it’s important for the plant to see the sky in order to thrive. Water: With adequate light and a well draining potting mix, allow the top two inches to dry out before watering. Potting mix: A well draining mix composed of coco coir, perlite or vermiculite, orchid bark and worm castings; you could also add some horticultural charcoal to this epiphytic mix. Fertilising: Feed your plant with a cactus fertiliser every other watering during the growing season or when you observe active growth. You can dilute fertiliser to half the recommended amount but never add more. Temperature: 16-24˚C during the day and cooler during the night, as low as 12˚C. Humidity: Disocactus ackermannii would prefer higher humidity but do well to adapt to average home humidity. You can increase humidity by placing the plant on a watered pebble tray or using a humidifier. Disocactus ackermannii are non-toxic.
