Epiphyllum is a genus of tropical succulents that can also be referred to as orchid cacti or climbing cacti. This family encompasses over a dozen different species and hybrids, each varying in size and shape. The stems of epiphyllums are long, flat, smooth, and hanging. They bloom with large, fragrant, colorful flowers during the spring or summer months that often open during the night. These plants are typically found growing epiphytically on tree trunks and branches rather than on the ground. Because they rely on the moisture and nutrients from their environment, it’s important to take proper care of them to ensure they remain healthy and thriving.
The trailing vines of orchid cacti can make your garden landscape look stunning and elegant, especially when planted in hanging baskets. Despite their name, these plants do not thrive in dry air or direct sunlight. Instead, they prefer warm, shady areas that resemble the tropical forest habitat they are accustomed to. Epiphyllum is the scientific name given to the orchid cactus, and it’s an excellent choice for those who want a low-maintenance, slow-growing plant that can bring in some greenery to their bathrooms.
Providing optimal conditions is crucial for the growth and care of your orchid cactus. To ensure its well-being, it’s important to maintain gentle temperatures, provide shaded sunlight, and humidity, along with a breathable potting mix. For those unable to meet these requirements, it’s better to keep the plant indoors. Epiphyllums, which are similar to orchids and bromeliads, also require the same environment. In case you decide to grow them outdoors, make sure to protect them from strong winds while ensuring proper air circulation.
LightOrchid cacti thrive when they receive filtered sunlight, which mimics the lighting patterns of their native tropical forests. Although a limited period of morning sun is tolerable, it is preferable to avoid full midday sun as this may lead to burns or white crusting. For optimal growth, it is best to cultivate them in an outdoor hanging basket, sheltered by the branches of a tree.
To ensure your Epiphyllum blooms again next year, it’s recommended to avoid keeping it in a room with lights that are on for an extended period after sunset. Excessive exposure to light can result in drooping growth and yellowing of leaves. Conversely, insufficient light can lead to spindly and weak growth.
Growing your epiphyllum plant directly on the ground is not recommended as regular soil can be too dense and may cause its death. To prevent this, it is best to use a loose potting mix that drains quickly and contains lightweight and porous materials that aid in drainage. An azalea mixture with perlite, cocoa chips, bark or pumice can be an excellent option.
Proper watering is essential for the well-being of orchid cacti. Unlike regular cacti, these plants require consistent watering during their growth period. It is vital to maintain the soil’s moisture without saturating it excessively. To promote optimal growth, wait until the top third of the soil has dried out before watering again. During the winter season, reduce watering and shift your plant to a cooler area. This will help to produce healthy and beautiful blooms in the upcoming season. For excellent outcomes, choose distilled or filtered water instead of tap water as they are more suitable for these fragile plants.
If the soil where your plant is growing becomes too wet, especially when it’s cold, you might face problems such as rust spots or branch dieback. In such a case, just remove the affected branches, shift the plant to a soil mix that drains quickly and stays dry, and water it less often.
If you want to ensure that your Epiphyllum remains in good condition, it’s advisable to cultivate them in outdoor pots or hanging baskets. This method allows you to conveniently transfer them indoors when the temperature drops to an unfavorable level. It is imperative to note that these fragile plants cannot survive frost or temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, hence creating a warm setting for them is crucial.
If you own an orchid cactus as part of your indoor plant collection, it’s essential to remember that you may need to adjust its position during the winter months compared to the rest of the year. The ideal temperature for your cactus during the growing season from spring to fall is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, when winter arrives, you should relocate your plant to a cooler area with filtered light to avoid cold drafts and radiators. Ideally, temperatures between 50 to 58 degrees Fahrenheit are best for your orchid cactus during this period. As soon as the flowers start to bloom, you can safely transfer your plant back to a warmer location.
For your Epiphyllum to thrive, it is best to maintain high levels of humidity. You can do this by placing the plant on a tray filled with moist gravel. However, be cautious not to let the roots absorb too much water. An alternative way is to mist the stems or use a humidifier. Also, it is advisable to fertilize your Epiphyllum in moderation a few times each year to promote healthy growth and blooming. Bear in mind that these plants grow in areas with minimal nutrients, so avoid over-fertilizing.
