Abstract: A compact fluorescent lamp includes a body and a detachable fluorescent lamp unit. An Edison base is provided on the body to enable the lamp to be installed in an incandescent lighting fixture having an Edison screw-in socket. The body also includes an interchangeable socket insert which is adapted to receive the mounting base of the lamp unit. The socket insert may have different socket configurations to be compatible with conventional lamp units having different types of mounting bases and different power output ratings. The lamp unit includes a plurality of lamp tubes which extend parallel to each other from the mounting base. When the lamp is installed in the Edison socket, the lamp tubes are inclined downward from the horizontal at a small angle. In addition, the lamp tubes are oriented at an angle of approximately 45.degree. relative to the horizontal, both above and below the lamp to provide enhanced light distribution.