I’ve grown many epiphytic cacti, but Fern Cactus (Selenicereus Chrysocardium) holds a special place in my heart. It’s a botanical oddity with a bold presence—something between a jungle cactus and a fern. Here, I answer the most common questions I get about it. Whether you’re a collector or a curious gardener, this guide will keep things short, strong, and full of useful facts.
What Is Fern Cactus – Selenicereus Chrysocardium?
Fern Cactus, also known as Gold Cardium Cactus or Saw Tooth Cactus, is a tropical epiphytic cactus. Native to Mexico and Central America, it’s not your desert cactus. Instead of spines, it grows long, flat, deeply lobed stems that resemble fern fronds or antlers.
It belongs to the Cactaceae family but behaves more like an orchid or fern. It loves humidity, indirect light, and hanging baskets. It’s also a night bloomer—its white flowers open after sunset and fade by morning.
Is Selenicereus Chrysocardium a Fern or a Cactus?
It’s a cactus—but not your typical one. Its foliage is what throws people off. Unlike most cacti, it doesn’t have spines or pads. Instead, its stems branch out in lobes, much like a fern or even a dissected philodendron. However, genetically and botanically, it is a true cactus.
This oddity is also related to other jungle cacti like Selenicereus Anthonyanus (Fishbone Cactus) and Epiphyllum Anguliger (Ric Rac Cactus).
How Do I Care for Fern Cactus?
Here’s my care routine in a nutshell:
- Light: Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sun—it burns the stems. East-facing windows work best for me.
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Water when the top inch dries out. It hates being waterlogged.
- Humidity: Loves humidity. I mist it or keep it in a room with over 50% humidity.
- Soil: Use orchid bark, perlite, and cactus mix. Think loose and airy—mimicking tree bark, where it naturally grows.
- Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during spring and summer using a diluted cactus or orchid fertilizer.
Why Is My Fern Cactus Turning Yellow?
Yellowing stems usually mean:
- Overwatering – Root rot is a real danger.
- Low light – Not enough light can cause chlorosis.
- Poor drainage – Always use well-aerated soil.
I once had a beautiful hanging Fern Cactus that went yellow in just a week. Turned out the pot had clogged drainage holes. Lesson learned.
Can Fern Cactus Bloom Indoors?
Yes, but rarely. It needs ideal conditions—bright filtered light, stable temps, and maturity. My oldest plant bloomed once after a long, hot summer. The flower was large, white, and fragrant, like a mini moonflower. It only lasted one night. But wow, it was worth it.
How Is Fern Cactus Different from Fishbone Cactus?
They’re cousins, both from the Selenicereus genus, but have key differences:
| Feature | Fern Cactus (Selenicereus Chrysocardium) | Fishbone Cactus (Selenicereus Anthonyanus) |
|---|---|---|
| Stem Shape | Deeply lobed, fern-like | Zigzag, fishbone pattern |
| Texture | Flat, smooth, scalloped | Serrated, sharp edges |
| Growth Habit | Cascading, soft | Stiff, upright-arching |
| Blooming | White, nocturnal | Pink-purple, also nocturnal |
If you love the weird beauty of Fern Cactus, you’ll likely love Fishbone too.
Is Fern Cactus Safe for Pets?
Yes, to my knowledge, it’s non-toxic to cats and dogs. Unlike Euphorbia or toxic Philodendrons, Fern Cactus doesn’t have sap or spines. Still, I keep mine out of reach—mainly to protect the plant, not my pets.
Can It Be Propagated Easily?
Absolutely. I’ve had great success by cutting a healthy stem, letting it callous for 2–3 days, and planting it in moist orchid mix. Keep it warm and humid, and it’ll root in 2–4 weeks. It’s slow at first, but once established, it takes off.
How Big Can Fern Cactus Get?
Indoors, it can easily reach 2–4 feet wide and cascade several feet. I grow mine in a large hanging basket. Given room and support, it becomes a showstopper. Outdoors in tropical zones (USDA 10+), it can grow even larger.
Can Fern Cactus Grow Outdoors?
Yes, if you live in zones 10–11. It hates frost and strong direct sun but thrives in shaded patios or tree canopies. I keep mine outdoors during summer but bring it inside when nights dip below 50°F.
Final Thoughts
Selenicereus Chrysocardium, or Fern Cactus, is one of those rare plants that make people pause. It blurs the lines between categories—cactus, fern, epiphyte—and thrives on neglect just as much as care. It’s odd, elegant, and totally worth the space.
If you’re into epiphytic cacti like Disocactus, Epiphyllum, or Rhipsalis, this one belongs in your collection. It’s a botanical conversation starter, a visual thrill, and surprisingly forgiving once you understand its rhythm.
If i die, water my plants!
