Identifying a Large Hanging Cactus with Red Flowers

Description Matches

Large, hanging, "gross looking" stems with spectacular red/pink flowers – likely an epiphytic cactus such as:

• Disocactus (rat-tail cactus)
• Aporocactus
• Epiphyllum hybrids (orchid cacti)
• Selenicereus (moonlight cactus)

Bloom Trigger

If it's a "Christmas cactus" type (Schlumbergera or Rhipsalidopsis):

1. 6–8 weeks of 14-hour nights (total darkness) starting late September.
2. Cool temps (50–55°F) during this period.
3. Then normal care – buds form at segment tips.

Identification Needed

Email a clear photo to gregandkat@msn.com for exact ID. Flower shape, stem structure, and spine type distinguish genera.

Many epiphytic cacti bloom unpredictably; consistent light/dark cycles improve odds.