Upcoming : Halloween Terrarium Workshop Tuesday Oct. 13 @ 6 pm / Garden Stone Painting Night Tuesday Oct. 20 @ 6 pm / Dried Floral Book Workshop Thursday Oct 29 @ 6 pm / Moss Art Sunday Nov. 1 @ 2 pm
Shark's Tooth Cactus is a distinctive tropical cactus known for its long, flattened stems with dramatic, sharply notched edges that resemble a row of shark's teeth. Its vibrant green, zigzagging foliage creates a bold, sculptural appearance that looks especially striking as the stems cascade from hanging baskets or elevated shelves. Unlike traditional desert cacti, this unusual plant prefers filtered light, moderate moisture, and a little extra humidity. Its unique shape and relatively easy care make it a wonderful addition to any indoor plant collection.
Commonly sold as Shark's Tooth Cactus, this plant is often identified as Selenicereus anthonyanus, formerly known as Cryptocereus anthonyanus. It is closely related to the Ric Rac Cactus (Disocactus anguliger), but typically features deeper, more sharply defined notches along its stems. Native to southern Mexico, this epiphytic cactus naturally grows on trees in tropical forests. Mature plants may produce spectacular, fragrant flowers with narrow pink outer petals and creamy-white centers.
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate medium light conditions. Gentle morning sunlight may encourage healthy growth and flowering, while prolonged exposure to harsh afternoon sun can scorch or discolor the stems.
Watering: Allow the top 1–2 inches of soil to dry between waterings. Water thoroughly, allowing excess water to drain away. Unlike desert cacti, Shark's Tooth Cactus appreciates more consistent moisture during active growth but should never remain in waterlogged soil. Reduce watering during cooler months.
Soil: Use a loose, well-draining epiphytic mix containing orchid bark, perlite, coco coir, and quality potting soil. The mixture should retain some moisture while providing excellent airflow around the roots.
Temperature & Humidity: Thrives in temperatures between 60–85°F and appreciates moderate to high humidity, ideally 50–70%. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 50°F. Good airflow is beneficial, especially in humid environments.
Growth Habit: A trailing, epiphytic cactus that produces long, flattened stems with deep, triangular notches resembling shark's teeth. Its cascading stems can reach several feet in length, making it ideal for hanging baskets and elevated planters. Mature plants may produce large, fragrant, nighttime blooms under favorable growing conditions.
Generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. Shark's Tooth Cactus is commonly regarded as a pet-friendly houseplant, although species-specific toxicity information is limited. Consuming large amounts of plant material may still cause mild gastrointestinal upset, so it is best to discourage pets from chewing on the stems.
Upcoming : Halloween Terrarium Workshop Tuesday Oct. 13 @ 6 pm / Garden Stone Painting Night Tuesday Oct. 20 @ 6 pm / Dried Floral Book Workshop Thursday Oct 29 @ 6 pm / Moss Art Sunday Nov. 1 @ 2 pm
