Epiphyllum aitonii
Epiphyllum aitonii · Cactaceae
The orchid cactus or Epiphyllum is a magnificent tropical succulent that captivates with its spectacular nocturnal blooms. Its flat, ribbon-like green stems make it an elegant addition to hanging baskets and shelves. Easy to cultivate indoors, it rewards patient growers with breathtaking fragrant flowers in spring and summer.
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around epiphyllum aitonii and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Orchid cactus, Epiphyllum
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Blooming period
- Spring to summer (April-June)
- Flowers
- Large, white or pink, nocturnal and fragrant
- Adult size
- 30 to 100 cm tall, trailing habit
- Foliage
- Flat stems, light green, evergreen
- Growth rate
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Tender (0 to 10 °C), indoor plant
Care
Watering
Water regularly in spring and summer when the substrate begins to dry at the surface. Reduce watering in autumn and winter. Avoid standing water: drainage is crucial. Use room-temperature water, preferably filtered or demineralised.
Light exposure
Place it in bright indirect light: a windowsill facing east or west is ideal. Avoid intense direct sun which would scorch the stems. In winter, abundant light remains necessary to prepare for flowering.
Soil and drainage
Use a light, well-draining substrate: commercial cactus mix or succulent potting soil enriched with perlite or bark. Excellent drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Fertilising
Feed every 15 days from March to September with diluted fertiliser specially formulated for flowering plants or cacti. Stop all feeding in winter to respect the dormancy period and encourage flower production in spring.
Pruning and shaping
Pinch or lightly prune after flowering to encourage branching density. Remove dead or weak stems. Respect the natural trailing form: it works beautifully in hanging baskets and planters.
Pests and diseases
Watch for scale insects and spider mites, especially in heated indoor environments. Excess moisture or overwatering causes root rot and fungal issues. Ensure good air circulation and follow moderate watering schedules.
Did you know?
The Epiphyllum aitonii carries the poetic nickname 'queen of the night' because its splendid white flowers bloom at dusk and release a sweet fragrance. The Aztecs revered this cactus as a symbol of the ephemeral and the divine. Today, Epiphyllum enthusiasts are passionate about creating hybrids in golden, pink and crimson hues.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring, once all risk of frost has gone. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from April to June.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Opuntia basilarisOpuntia basilaris
- Ferocactus wislizeniFerocactus wislizeni
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.