Overview
Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' is a plant with a trailing habit in the genus Epiphyllum, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' grows best in partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1B. Suggested uses include houseplants, sub-tropical and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' is a trailing Epiphyllum cultivar in the cactus family, noted for its summer flowering. It carries evergreen stems and is grown primarily under glass or as a houseplant. The cultivar suits sheltered, bright sites with partial shade and flowers from June to September.
About the genus
Epiphyllum, ; from Ancient Greek ἐπι- (epi-), meaning "upon", and φύλλον (phúllon), meaning "leaf", is a genus of epiphytic plants in the cactus family (Cactaceae), native to Central America and South America. Common names for these species include climbing cacti, orchid cacti and leaf cacti, though the latter also refers to the genus Pereskia.
Wikipedia contributors, "Epiphyllum", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Epiphyllum
In the garden
A member of the Cactaceae, Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' is a trailing cultivar grown for its seasonal display of flowers. It is typically maintained as a conservatory or indoor plant rather than planted outdoors in UK borders, and makes a good subject for hanging pots or high shelves where stems can drape. Position it in partial shade rather than direct midday sun. A free-draining mix based on loam with some sand works well; the plant tolerates acid to alkaline pH but needs a compost that remains moist yet drains freely. East-, south- or west-facing aspects are all suitable provided the spot is sheltered from harsh wind or frost. Hardiness is H1B, which in plain terms means treat it as tender: keep it frost-free and move it under glass or indoors for winter. It suits conservatory and greenhouse culture, subtropical displays and indoor collections. Water to keep the compost evenly moist while avoiding waterlogged conditions, and give a position where trailing stems can spill over the container edge — this cultivar shows its habit best when grown in a hanging basket or on a high shelf, with flowers appearing from June to September.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Epiphyllum
- Sunlight
- Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1B
Plant details
Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Trailing
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Sub-tropical, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman'
- Propagation
- Seed sown at 21°C in spring; take stem cuttings in early summer
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman'?
Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' prefers partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' need?
Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' hardy in the UK?
Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman' has an RHS hardiness rating of H1b, meaning it needs subtropical warmth of 10–15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Epiphyllum 'Doris W. Pitman'?
Seed sown at 21°C in spring; take stem cuttings in early summer.