Crenate Orchid Cactus | Epiphyllum crenatum

Epiphyllum is a genus of tropical succulents often referred to as orchid cacti or climbing cacti. There are over a dozen species and many associated hybrids of varying shapes and sizes. They usually have long, flat, non-spiny, and trailing stems. With the right care, they showcase bright, large, fragrant, and night-blooming flowers in the spring or summer. In the wild, these mostly epiphytic plants grow on branches or trunks of trees rather than developing roots in the ground. They absorb the moisture and nutrients they need from the humid environment around them.

Light Requirement: Place the plant in bright, direct light, less than one foot from a window. In warmer climates, provide indirect light during the summer.

Soil Requirement: Use a well-draining potting mix with lots of perlite or vermiculite. You can mix your own potting mix by combining three parts peat moss potting soil with one part perlite.

Water Requirement: Water regularly in the growing season, but avoid overwatering. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and allow excess water to drain. In winter, water less frequently and keep the soil damp but not dry.

Additional Care: Keep them away from radiators and other heat sources, and out of cold draughts. Epiphyllum cacti like lots of bright, filtered light. But keep them out of strong midday sun, especially in summer, as this can scorch them. They need moderate to high humidity, so stand the container in a tray of damp gravel.