Disocactus × hybridus (Disocactus × hybridus)
Disocactus hybridus is reported to be epiphytic or rock-growing, with a shrubby, much-branched habit and branches that may hang down.
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Overview
Disocactus hybridus is reported to be epiphytic or rock-growing, with a shrubby, much-branched habit and branches that may hang down.
Origin and habitat
The native range of this hybrid is not established by the sources; the genus Disocactus occurs in Central America, the Caribbean, and northern South America. GBIF also has records from the United States, Mexico, French Polynesia, the United Kingdom, Brazil, and Nigeria, but these include cultivated or escaped records and therefore cannot be treated as evidence of native distribution. It is reported from tropical habitats, growing epiphytically on trees or on rocks.
Characteristics
A source reports a mature height of about 0–300 cm; sources are few. The leaf-like structures described by the source are actually flattened, strap-shaped stems; in some Disocactus, the main stem is more rounded near the base and becomes flattened and leaf-like above, while lateral branches may be entirely flattened. The flowers are reported to be large and open during the day, usually occurring singly but sometimes in groups from the areoles; they may be funnel-shaped, tubular, or bilaterally symmetrical, and colors within the genus include bright red, orange, reddish pink-orange, pale yellow, or white. It is reported to produce berry-like, oval fruits with an almost smooth surface or a few small scales, and the seeds are broadly ovate and brownish-black to nearly black.
Growing medium and mounting
Disocactus hybridus is reported to be epiphytic.
Identification
It is reported to have ribbed or flattened, strap-shaped branches with a leaf-like appearance, a much-branched habit with branches that may hang down, and large flowers.