About
This evergreen epiphytic cactus with rounded stems and green succulent-like lobed leaves. Large, double pink perfumed flowers, which have a paler pink edge on the petals, appear from late spring to early 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
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1B
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse, Houseplants
HabitTrailing
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationIn areas where temperatures drop below 10ºC, grow in epiphytic cactus compost in bright filtered light as houseplants or in a warm greenhouse with moderate to high humidity, and a minimum temperature of 10ºC for most of the year but 15ºC in the growing season; from mid-spring to late summer water freely and apply a high-potash fertilizer every 2 weeks as flower buds form, while in winter keep just moist. In warmer climates, grow in fertile, sharply drained soil in light dappled or partial shade. For more advice, see Epiphyllum cultivation
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by stem cuttings in early summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs, aphids and glasshouse red spider mite
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free