How to Grow & Care for an Epiphyllum Orchid Cactus

The epiphyllum orchid cactus is an unusual climbing plant native to Central America. It has tough, flat stems that resemble leaves. These stems attach themselves to climbing structures by dangling roots. In the late winter, colorful, fragrant blooms begin to appear. Each bloom lasts only one night, but the flowers continue to develop well into summer. The blooms are available in a variety of colors, including pink, white, yellow and coral. The epiphyllum orchid cactus does very well as a houseplant and is especially attractive when planted in a hanging basket.

Growing container

Small pebbles

Coarse sand

Cactus-growing mixture

Cactus fertilizer

Line the bottom of a growing container with small pebbles. Add a 1-inch layer of coarse sand on top of the pebbles.

Fill the growing container three-quarters of the way with cactus-growing mixture. Plant the epiphyllum orchid cactus at the same level it was growing before and water it to lightly moisten the soil.

Place a 5- to 6-inch climbing structure, such as a stake or small trellis, into the soil. The stake should be 3 to 4 inches from the base of the plant to avoid disturbing the roots. Move the container to a location that receives plentiful, indirect sunlight. An east- or west-facing window is ideal.

Water whenever the top 1/2-inch of soil feels dry.

Fertilize once every two weeks with cactus fertilizer during the spring and summer months. Do not fertilize outside of the growing season; the plant must go dormant to bloom again.

Reduce watering in winter. Add only enough moisture to keep the soil from drying out completely. Resume normal watering and fertilizing in early spring.

The selected growing container should have several holes in the bottom for drainage.

Do not place the epiphyllum orchid cactus in direct sunlight.