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Shark Tooth Fern

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Selenicereus chrysocardium (formerly Epiphyllum)

 KNOWN AS: Shark Tooth Fern, Fern Leaf Cactus, Golden Heart Cactus

CLIMATE (LOCATION): Mexico | Tropical Rainforest (Epiphyte)

DESCRIPTION: The Shark Tooth Fern is a botanical marvel. It is a spineless, epiphytic cactus that grows massive, flattened, zig-zagging branches that look like giant, serrated fern fronds. The "teeth" are deeply lobed and a rich, glossy green. In the wild, it grows on trees, and when mature, it produces spectacular, night-blooming white flowers that can reach 12 inches in diameter with a burst of golden stamens.

Shark Tooth Fern Plant Care

Lighting

Light Requirement: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

Because it is a rainforest cactus (not a desert cactus), it prefers dappled light.

The Sweet Spot: Bright, filtered light. It loves a spot near an east or west-facing window.

Direct Sun: Morning sun is okay, but harsh afternoon sun will bleach the stems yellow or cause "sunburn" spots.

Low Light: It is quite tolerant of lower light, but its growth will become very thin and "leggy," and it will never produce its famous giant flowers.

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Watering

Quick Tip: Allow the top 50-75% of the soil to dry out between waterings.

This plant likes more water than a typical cactus but far less than a true fern.

The Routine: Water thoroughly until it runs out the drainage holes, then wait until the soil is mostly dry before watering again.

The Drought Sign: If the "teeth" start to look wrinkled or feel limp rather than firm and snappy, it’s time to water.

Winter: Reduce watering to once every 3–4 weeks as growth slows down.

Temperature

Preferred Temperature: 65º - 85º

The Shark Tooth Fern loves warm, humid environments.

The Danger: It is not frost-hardy. Keep it away from cold drafts and windows during the winter. Temperatures below 50°F can cause the stems to develop mushy, brown rot.

Stable Warmth: Consistent warmth is the secret to getting this plant to reach its massive, 6-foot trailing potential.

Humidity

Preferred Humidity: 50 - 70%; Moderate/High Humidity

While it is a cactus, its rainforest origins mean it appreciates humidity more than its desert cousins.

Resilience: It is much more tolerant of dry indoor air than a true fern. However, if your home is very dry, the tips of the "teeth" may turn brown.

The Boost: A humidifier or occasional misting will help it grow faster and produce larger, lusher stems.

Additional Plant Care

Propagation
This plant is incredibly easy to propagate from stem cuttings. How to Propagate: Cut a section of a "frond" at least 6 inches long. Let the cut end callus (dry out) for 2–4 days until a hard skin forms. Stick the callused end into moist perlite or cactus soil. Tip: It can also be rooted in water, though the "callus and soil" method prevents rot more effectively for this species.
Toxicity
Quick Warning: Non-Toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. This is a 100% pet-safe plant, making it a great alternative for people who want the "fern look" without the risk of toxicity or the high-maintenance watering of a true fern.
Repotting
When to Repot: Every 2 years. It is an epiphyte, so it doesn't mind being slightly root-bound. Choose a Pot: A hanging basket is ideal, as the stems will eventually trail down several feet. Support: If you want it to grow upright, you will need a sturdy moss pole or trellis, as the heavy stems will eventually flop over.
Pruning
Grooming: Use sterilized shears to remove any yellowing or damaged stems. Size Control: If the plant gets too large for your space, simply prune the stems back; you can use the trimmings to start new plants! Cleaning: Dust the broad, flat stems with a damp cloth once a month to keep the plant "breathing" and looking glossy.
Fertilizer
Quick Tip: Feed regularly during the growing season to encourage flowering. What to Use: A balanced liquid houseplant fertilizer or a cactus fertilizer diluted to half strength. When to Apply: Every 2–4 weeks during the spring and summer. Flower Power: In late winter/early spring, you can switch to a high-phosphorus fertilizer (Bloom Booster) to encourage those massive night-blooming flowers. Winter: Stop fertilizing entirely in the winter.
Soil
Standard potting soil is too heavy and will rot the roots. Ideal Mix: An Aroid or Orchid-style mix that allows for massive airflow. Recommended Blend: 1 part cactus soil, 1 part orchid bark, and 1 part perlite (or pumice). This mimics the airy debris of the tree branches where it grows in the wild.

Hanging Heights

Shark Tooth Fern Lighting Requirements: High Light (Bright Indirect Light)

Chart showing recommended hanging heights for Soltech Aspect and popular plants for each range.

Aspect Hanging Heights - Shark Tooth Fern

-

Soltech's Recommendation -

24" to 36"

-

VIEW ASPECT GROW GUIDE

Vita Hanging Heights - Shark Tooth Fern

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Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Vita : 24" to 36"

60º Wide Beam Vita : 12" to 24"

-

VIEW VITA GROW GUIDE

Highland Hanging Heights - Shark Tooth Fern

-

Soltech's Recommendation -

36º Narrow Beam Highland : 30" to 42"

60º Wide Beam Highland : 18" to 30"

-

VIEW HIGHLAND GROW GUIDE

Grove Hanging Heights - Shark Tooth Fern

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Soltech's Recommendation:

  • 1" to 12"

-

VIEW GROVE GROW GUIDE

Lighting guide for plants with Soltech Aura and potted plants on a neutral background

Aura Light Distances - Shark Tooth Fern

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Soltech's Recommendation:

  • 0" to 8"

-

VIEW AURA GROW GUIDE

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