
ZYGOCACTUS 
The term zygo is from the Greek word meaning yoke. This 
genus is native of Brazil where they are found growing like 
orchids in trees. Most varieties branch well from the base, some 
becoming bushy with a woody trunk. Branches on some forms 
tend to arch outward with a distinct chain effect giving rise to 
the name of Link-Leaf Cactus, which was used in the latter 
part of the nineteenth century. Links are obvate to round with 
a blunt apex or with a horned apex, the latter form giving rise 
to the term CRABcactus. 
The flowers are very beautiful and have a distinctly different 
shape from most other Epiphytic cactus. Before opening, the bud 
is pointed forward and seems to be hooked. Before fully opened 
the uppermost petals are overlapped and tipped forward in a 
hood or roof effect with the stamens and anthers clinging to 
the top; the lower petals are spreading and bent back against 
the tube. In general, the effect is that of an upside-down 
flower. They may be found in a number of colors including 
white. They are excellent as corsage material and when so used 
are worn reversed. Flowers are borne at the apex of the stems 
and are solitary; rarely two or three. They are zygomorphic, 
that is, divisible into similar or symmetrical halves by one 
plane only. 
CULTURE 
Culture is not difficult. A very porous soil that drains well 
and yet remains moist—-NOT WET—is best. However, where 
the plant is a grafted one, it is wise to use soil and other con- 
ditions suitable to the growth of the base or root-stock. Epiphy- 
tic plants need an airy, moist atmosphere for best results. Their 
normal food is derived from decayed leaves and bark accumu- 
lated in the crotches of the trees in which they have become 
established. In making an artificial duplication of this condition, 
we use about one-half leaf mold with the balance of the 
mixture composed of equal parts of soil, coarse gravel and well 
rotted steer manure with the addition of a small amount of 
steamed bone meal (possibly a teaspoonful to a three inch pot). 
Water oftener in the fall while buds are forming, than in the 
spring. If possible, set the plants aside in a cool, moist place 
during the hottest months—water sparingly. 
The Zygocactus is susceptible to scale and care should be 
taken to examine the undersides of the leaves regularly, espe- 
cially right at the union of the joints. At the first sign of any 
infestation, a mild oil spray should be used. Your dealer will 
recommend a suitable one. Spray only on cool or cloudy days; 
the plants may be hosed off after 24 hours; repeat in two 
weeks if necessary. As a special treat to your plants, soak one 
pound of cottonseed meal in five gallons of water for 24 to 36 
hours or longer. Strain well and use as a foliage spray. It need 
not be washed off as it is beneficial to both plant and soil. This 
may be used two or three times a year. 
CUTTINGS 
On receiving your rooted cuttings plant them in slightly moist 
potting soil and wait a day or two before starting regular water- 
ing. When potting your plants allow ample room between the 

