[citation needed] This epiphytic cactus has smooth green skin and extensively branched stems.

[5] The interior of the tasty fruit is reminiscent of kiwifruit, with green pulp and small black seeds.

The species is endemic to Mexico, occurring as an epiphyte in evergreen forests in Oaxaca, Guerrero, Jalisco, and Michoacán and/or Nayarit.

It can be found at elevations between 1,100 and 1,800 m.[1] This plant was first distributed in Europe by the Horticultural Society of London which obtained it from the collector T. Hartweg in 1846.

[6] This easily cultivated, fast growing epiphyte requires a compost containing plenty of humus and sufficient moisture in summer.