Orchid Cactus - Epiphyllum Pumilum

English name:

Orchid Cactus

Latin name:

Epiphyllum Pumilum

About me:

I am a member of the blooming cactus family, so if you treat me right, I will produce stunning fragrant flowers.

Also my reliable bloom if pollinated will produce a small edible fruit like the Pitaya. (Dragonfruit) and I am by far the most rewarding maintenance free house plant.

Origin:

I am a native from Central America.

Temperature:

I like average to warm conditions 16-25°C.

Water:

Water me more during the summer and less during winter. Once a week alongside a good misting will do.

Height/Growth:

I can achieve heights of 60 cm.

Feed:

Apply a weak cactus feed during the summer.

Position:

I prefer medium light conditions, so no sunlight please.

Care:

I am susceptible to black rot disease so don't let me get too wet. Bacteria (erwinia cacticida) can eat away at my roots until nothing but a black mush is left!

Toxicity:

I am pet and children safe

Grooming:

If I'm getting too big too quickly, feel free to trim me back.

FAQ's about Rhipsalis Heteroclada:

How to make Orchid Cactus bloom?

Growing this flowering cactus is easy, but a few things you can do will help it to bloom:

Give it a winter rest. A cool, dry rest for about 8-10 weeks in winter are needed for the plant to set buds. Water sparingly and stop fertilizing during this time.
Shed some light. Keep your orchid cactus in bright, indirect light year-round. If you move it outdoors for the summer, keep the plant shaded from direct sunlight.
Feed it. High-phosphorus fertilizer will encourage more blooms. Start feeding in early spring and continue through to the autumn.
Leave it alone. Once buds appear, keep the plant in the same location. Changes in light and temperature by moving it around will cause it to drop its buds and flowers. Also keep it away from drafty areas like doorways.

Dropped flower buds? Once buds set, don't move the plant around. Changes in light will likely cause flower buds to fall off. Don't worry, though - these tropical hybrids will live long and with good care, will bloom beautifully when they get what they want.

Limp stems that turn blackish at the base is stem rot, caused by overwatering. You can cut off any rotted stems at soil-level.