Costa Rican Cactus Plant Care

Costa Rican Cactus (Selenicereus costaricensis) belongs to the Cactaceae family within the Selenicereus genus. Costa Rican Cactus is native to Central America and northwestern South America, ranging from Nicaragua to northern Peru in seasonally dry tropical biomes. Costa Rican Cactus is also known as Night Blooming Cereus.

Costa Rican Cactus displays a vining, climbing cactus growth habit, reaching up to 10 ft tall with a spread of approximately 3 ft. Costa Rican Cactus produces large, fragrant white blooms that open at night.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

Selenicereus costaricensis requires watering every 14–21 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Costa Rican Cactus thrives in bright indirect to partial sun. Avoid placing Costa Rican Cactus in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Selenicereus costaricensis grows best at temperatures of 60–85°F. Costa Rican Cactus prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Sandy, well-draining cactus mix with perlite and coarse sand. Good drainage is essential for Costa Rican Cactus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Costa Rican Cactus every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Costa Rican Cactus can be propagated through stem cuttings, grafting. Similar propagation techniques also apply to ric rac cactus plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Costa Rican Cactus is susceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Costa Rican Cactus grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. Costa Rican Cactus is native to Central America and northwestern South America, ranging from Nicaragua to northern Peru in seasonally dry tropical biomes. In cooler regions, grow Costa Rican Cactus as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.