How to Grow Ghost Cactus
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Ghost Cactus
Selenicereus anthonyanus
succulentGhost cactus is a sprawling, epiphytic cactus native to Mexico with flat, wing-like, pale green stems that resemble leaves. It produces stunning fragrant white flowers that bloom nocturnally, followed by edible red fruits. This low-maintenance plant is excellent for hanging baskets and containers.
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Example Ghost Cactus timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ghost Cactus
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ghost Cactus
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ghost Cactus dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 10-11; grow indoors in cooler climates
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Establishment
4-8 weeksNew cuttings or young plants developing initial root systems. Stems are pale green and tender.
Keep soil barely moist, not wet. Provide bright indirect light. Avoid fertilizing for 6-8 weeks.
Vegetative Growth
Several months to 1+ yearPlant develops multiple flat, wing-like stems. Stems elongate and may trail or climb depending on support.
Water moderately when dry. Begin monthly diluted fertilizing during growing season (spring-summer). Provide support or hanging structure as needed.
Mature Growth
1-2 years before floweringPlant reaches 2-4 feet in length with established branching structure. Stems darken slightly and become woody at base.
Continue regular watering and seasonal feeding. Prune to encourage bushier growth if desired. Rotate container for even growth.
Flowering
June-August, flowering period 4-8 weeksLarge, fragrant white flowers (4-6 inches) emerge from stem edges, opening at night and lasting one night. Multiple buds appear over several weeks.
Maintain consistent care. Slight temperature drop (10-15°F cooler than day) at night may encourage blooming. Do not move plant during flowering.
Fruiting
Fruits mature over 4-6 weeksAfter pollination, small red or pink fruits develop on the plant. Fruits are edible with sweet flavor similar to dragonfruit.
Leave fruits on plant if desired for ornamental value and wildlife. Harvest ripe fruits when they soften slightly. Allow plant to rest in winter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab. Improve air circulation.
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Manually remove with brush or cloth. Apply horticultural oil or neem oil spray. Treat every 7-10 days for persistent infestations.
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Increase humidity by misting. Spray with neem oil or miticide. Improve air circulation.
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Allow soil to dry completely. Repot into fresh, dry cactus soil. Remove affected roots. Reduce watering frequency.
Uses
Edible Fruit
CulinaryGhost cactus fruits are sweet and edible, similar in flavor to dragonfruit. They can be eaten fresh, added to smoothies, or used in desserts. [source]
Night-Blooming Ornamental
HouseholdThe spectacular fragrant white nocturnal flowers make this an excellent specimen plant for patios, porches, and indoor spaces where evening entertainment occurs. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeNight-blooming flowers attract nocturnal pollinators including moths and bats, making this plant valuable for supporting night-active wildlife. [source]
Air Plant/Container Gardening
CraftThe trailing habit and compact growth make ghost cactus ideal for hanging baskets, wall-mounted containers, and creative living wall displays. [source]
Traditional Use
MedicinalIn traditional Mexican medicine, related Selenicereus species have been used to support respiratory and digestive health, though scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Flowers bloom nocturnally in summer; witness blooming by checking plant in early evening. Harvest fruits when they turn fully red or pink and feel slightly soft to touch. Pick carefully to avoid damaging stems. Fruits are best consumed fresh within a few days.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Ghost cactus is sometimes called the 'honolulu queen' or 'queen of the night' relative because its flowers only bloom after sunset and last just one night before closing.
- 🌱 The plant is epiphytic, meaning it naturally grows on trees in tropical rainforests rather than in desert soil, which is why it prefers more frequent watering than typical cacti.
- 🌱 The edible fruits contain high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C, making them nutritionally similar to dragonfruit despite coming from a different cactus family.
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