About
A cactus with strap-shaped, flattened green stems that have notched edges; these leaf-like stems are initially upright before becoming more pendent as they age and elongate. aromatic, white flowers up to 10cm across are borne in summer.
About the genus
Epiphyllum are a genus of around 20 species of epiphytic cacti. Their rounded stems produce succulent leaf-like branches with funnel-shaped nocturnal flowers.
Growing conditions
SunlightPartial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitTrailing, Columnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants, Sub-tropical
Native toMexico
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationIn areas where temperature drops below 10⁰C, grow in epiphytic cactus compost in bright filtered light as houseplants or in a greenhouse with a minimum temperature of 15⁰C in the growing season. In warmer climates grow outside in fertile, sharply drained soil in light or dappled shade. See epihyllum cultivation for more information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by stem cuttings
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free