Shark Fin Epiphyllum

Shark Fin Epiphyllum (Epiphyllum anguliger)

The Shark Fin Epiphyllum is a very distinctive and unusual plant with several special qualities:

Unique Appearance

• Stems are flat and deeply lobed, resembling the jagged outline of a shark’s fin or the skeleton of a fish.

• The zig-zag, geometric look makes it stand out compared to most other cacti and succulents.

Exotic Flowers

• Produces large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers.

• Flowers are usually creamy white to yellowish with long petals.

• Blooms open in the evening and attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats.

• Each bloom is short-lived (about one night) but spectacular when it appears.

Epiphytic Lifestyle

• Unlike desert cacti, it is epiphytic, naturally growing on trees in the tropical forests of Mexico.

• Absorbs moisture and nutrients from air and organic debris, not deep soil.

Adaptability

• Easy to grow indoors in hanging baskets or pots.

• Cascading stems create a striking, sculptural effect.

• Prefers bright, indirect light and can thrive in average home conditions.

Collector’s Favorite

• Due to its unusual leaf-like stems and rare blooms, it’s a sought-after plant among cactus and houseplant enthusiasts.

General Information

• Scientific Name: Epiphyllum anguliger

• Common Names: Shark Fin cactus, Orchid Fern Cactus

• Family: Cactaceae

• Origin: Mexico, particularly tropical rainforests

• Growth Habit: Epiphytic cactus (grows on trees in nature without harming them)

Appearance

• Stems/Leaves: Flattened, deeply lobed, zig-zag or fishbone-shaped stems that look like a shark fin

• Size: Can grow up to 3 feet long, trailing or cascading, ideal for hanging baskets

• Flowers:

  • Large, fragrant, nocturnal

  • Usually white or yellow with long petals

  • Blooms typically in fall under the right conditions

  • Flowers last only 1–2 days but are spectacular

Light Requirements

• Prefers bright, indirect light

• Can tolerate some direct sun (especially morning sun)

• Avoid harsh afternoon sun to prevent stem scorching

• Indoors: A bright east or west-facing window works best

Watering

• Spring–Summer (growing season): Keep soil slightly moist, water when the top 1–2 inches are dry

• Fall–Winter (resting season): Water less, allowing soil to dry more between waterings

• Avoid waterlogging—this plant dislikes sitting in soggy soil

Temperature & Humidity

• Thrives in 60–80°F (16–27°C)

• Minimum safe temperature: ~50°F (10°C)

• Likes higher humidity; mimic rainforest conditions by misting or using a humidity tray if indoors

Soil

• Needs a well-draining, airy mix

• Ideal mix: orchid bark + cactus soil + perlite/pumice

• Slightly acidic pH (5.5–6.5) preferred

Blooming Tips

• Provide cooler nights (~55–60°F / 13–16°C) in autumn

• Allow a short rest period with reduced watering before bloom season

• Avoid moving the plant once buds appear

Propagation

• Very easy from stem cuttings:

  • Let cut ends callous for 1–2 days

  • Place in moist, well-draining soil

  • Roots form in a few weeks

Special Notes

• Non-toxic to pets (safe for cats & dogs)

• Popular for its unique zig-zag foliage and fragrant night-blooming flowers

• Can be grown indoors year-round in hanging baskets or trained on trellises

Botanical Name

Epiphyllum anguliger

Common Names

Shark Fin Epiphyllum

Plant Type

Epiphytic Cactus

Mature Size

Can grow 2-3 feet long; trailing or cascading habit

Sun Exposure

Bright, indirect light; can tolerate some morning or evening sun

Soil Type

Well-draining cactus or succulent soil mix

Watering

Allow soil to dry out between watering; reduce watering in winter

Humidity

Prefers average household humidity; can tolerate slightly higher humidity

Bloom Time

Summer to fall

Flower Color

Fragrant white flowers

Hardiness Zones

Zone 10-11; grown indoors in cooler climates

Native Area

Mexico

Toxicity

Pet Friendly; Non-Toxic to cats and dogs

Plants ship from our location in Florida and arrive nationwide within 5-8 business days. All our plants ship exclusively with UPS to ensure they arrive timely and in good condition. For those users in Florida, George, North Carolina, South Carolina, or Virginia, shipping may be faster. Estimated shipping dates can be seen in checkout. Plant exclusions may apply.

We monitor the weather in each destination location to maximize the shipping time and utilize thermal protection to ensure that the plant is protected. You can add a heatpack or thermal bag to your order if temperatures at night fall below 40 degrees.

You can visit our shipping policy to learn more.