Strophocactus Species, Dog-Tail Cactus
Selenicereustestudo

Family: Cactaceae (kak-TAY-see-ee)
Genus: Selenicereus (sel-ee-nih-KER-ee-us)
Species: testudo (tes-TOO-do)

Synonym:Deamia diabolica

Synonym:Deamia testudo

Synonym:Selenicereus testudo

Category
Groundcovers
Tropicals and Tender Perennials
Vines and Climbers
Cactus and Succulents
Epiphytes

Water Requirements
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater

Sun Exposure
Full Sun
Sun to Partial Shade
Light Shade

Foliage

Foliage Color

Height
8-10 ft. (2.4-3 m)

Spacing
12-15 in. (30-38 cm)
15-18 in. (38-45 cm)
18-24 in. (45-60 cm)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)
USDA Zone 11: above 4.5 °C (40 °F)

Where to Grow
Can be grown as an annual
Suitable for growing in containers

Danger
Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling

Bloom Color
White/Near White

Bloom Characteristics
Flowers are fragrant

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Mid Summer
Late Summer/Early Fall

Other details

Soil pH requirements
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)

Patent Information
Non-patented

Propagation Methods
From woody stem cuttings
From softwood cuttings
From semi-hardwood cuttings
Allow cut surface to callous over before planting

Seed Collecting
Unblemished fruit must be significantly overripe before harvesting seed; clean and dry seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored