20 BEAHM 
ZYGOCACTUS 
The term zygo is from the Greek word meaning yoke. This 
genus is native of Brazil where they are found growing in 
trees. Most varieties branch well from the base, some becoming 
bushy with a woody trunk. Others arch outward with a dis- 
tinct chain effect giving rise to the name of Link-Leaf Cactus, 
which was used in the latter part of the nineteenth century. 
Links are obovate to round with a horned apex. Other terms 
are CLAW or 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. On opening 
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 used 
are worn reversed. Flowers are borne at the apex of the stems 
and are solitary; rarely two or three. The flowers are zygo- 
morphic, that is, divisible into symmetrical halves by one plane 
only. 
CULTURE is not difficult. A very porous soil that drains 
well and yet remains moist—NOT SODDEN—is best. How- 
ever, where the plant is a grafted one, it is wise to use soil and 
other conditions suitable to the growth of the base or root- 
stock. Epiphytic plants need an airy, moist atmosphere for 
best results. Their normal food is derived from decayed leaves 
and bark accumulated in the crotches of the trees in which they 
have become established. In making an artificial duplication of 
this condition, we use the same potting soil as for Epiphyllums. 
(See page 19.) Water oftener in the fall while buds are form- 
ing, than in the spring. During the hottest months, set the 
plants aside in a cool, moist place—water sparingly. 
No trellis is needed except for those grafted plants on tall 
standards. These should be supported as their tops increase in 
size. A framework simulating an umbrella is often used. 
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. 
Care of CUTTINGS, both ROOTED and UNROOTED see 
page 19. 
Approximately 75 forms of the Link-Leaf Epiphytic Cactus 
have been mentioned in publications during the past century 
(not in detail). Apparently only a very few of these are 
