Orchid Cactus Facts
The orchid cactus, also known by its genus name Epiphyllum, has no relation to the orchid at all. The name comes from its flowers, which resemble orchids. And it's the orchid cactus's flowers that make the plant special, since they often bloom for only one night. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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The orchid cactus has broad, flat leaf-like stems that can reach 18 to 30 inches long and 2 to 4 inches wide. There are indentations of various depths along the edges of the stems. Areoles, or furry tufts with faint cactus spines, grow from these indentations.
Flowers
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The orchid cactus's flowers sprout as long tubes from the areoles. The flowers, which are fragrant and can stretch as large as 10 inches in diameter, only bloom at night. The petals range in number. Colors may include orange, pink, red, white, and yellow.
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Time Frame
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The orchid cactus blooms anywhere from the end of February to June. The flowers may last from one night to four days depending on the species and weather conditions.
Geography
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Orchid cacti are native to the jungles of Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Considerations
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The ideal soil for orchid cacti is slightly acidic and should contain organic matter like leaf mold or aged manure. They grow best in temperatures between 45 and 70 degrees F and in moist, well-drained soil with only partial or filtered sunlight.
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