A cactus native to northern South America and Central America. Its habitat includes tropical riparian forests, where it often adopts an epiphytic lifestyle, growing on other plants or trees without causing them any harm. In its natural environment, the plant can send out vines that reach lengths of up to 20 feet, securing moisture and nutrients from the surrounding air and matter, typical of epiphytes​​. This species is recognized for its substantial sweet fruits, which are a yellow version of the more commonly known dragon fruit and are edible. The fruit is distinguished by its ovoid shape and scales, and it harbors a pleasant-tasting red purple flesh peppered with small black seeds​​. As an ornamental, it is valued for its extensive, impressive climbing vines and notably large flowers, contributing to its reputation among the largest-flowering cacti​​. The fruit is called pitaya in Colombia.