Download Epiphyllum Care Instructions

Epiphyllum
Sometimes called orchid cactus (although they are not related to orchids), or phyllocactus, epiphyllum are
a genus of cacti native to the humid jungles and rain forests of Mexico and Central and South America.
Although they are members of the cactus family, they are also epiphytes or plants that often grow in trees
or crevices and take in a great deal of moisture and nutrients from the air. In Greek epiphyllum means
"upon the leaf" because it appears that flowers grow directly from the leaf tip. Instead the leaves are
actually flattened stems, as epiphyllum have no 'real' leaves. Most jungle cacti do not have the traditional
spikes associated with desert cacti species. However, many do have tiny bristles and spines that grow
from the areole. Wild epiphyllum primarily produce white or whitish-yellow blooms that emerge at night.
However there are a few species with red and orange blooms. Growers have succeeded in creating a full
spectrum of blooms through hybridization but as a result questions have arose as to whether most
hybrids available now are true epiphyllum. As a result the proper term Epiphyllum Hort. is used to refer to
human-arranged hybrids.
Care Instructions
Light: Filtered sunlight or a sunny window are best. Avoid direct, hot sun. These plants often grow in
trees where light is filtered by the leaves and branches of the tree.
Temperature: They will not tolerate frost and prefer average temperatures between 45 and 70 degrees F.
Water: Keep the soil moist but never soggy. Epiphyllums enjoy a humid environment that is also airy (but
not windy). Water the plant thoroughly and then allow the water to drain out. Never let the plant sit in
water. Water again when the top 1/3 layer of soil becomes dry. Reduce watering to just enough to stay
moist during the winter months and directly after flowering.
Fertilizing: Fertilize monthly from spring to fall using a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or an alternative
such as vermicompost or sea kelp. Do not fertilize during winter months.
Repotting: Pot in soil that is richer than standard cactus soil mix. Soil should be rich and loamy but with
enough course material to ensure proper drainage and avoiding compaction. A good recipe is 1 part
organic matter such as peat, loam, compost or some kind of soiless potting mix, 2 parts course sand and
1 part inorganic content such as grit, perlite (the white, foamy bits), or crushed lava rock.
Propagation: Propagation from seed is a difficult and lengthy process. Often the new plants will not be
true to the parent plant. As a result cuttings are best for expanding your collection. Dip cutting in rooting
hormone and allow the cut end to scab over for up to 2 weeks before potting in fresh soil.
General Maintenance: Remove dead foliage with sharp pruning shears.