How to Care for a White Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum)

Epiphyllums are commonly called "orchid cactus." They are not orchids at all but are true cacti, and they originate from jungles and rainforests instead of deserts. Their blooms are spectacular, and in some cultivars, resemble orchids. A "white orchid cactus" refers to any of the epiphyllums that have white flowers, most commonly meaning the Epiphyllum hookeri, the Epiphyllum crenatum, and the Epiphyllum oxypetalum. All epiphyllums have the same care requirements. When properly cared for, a white orchid cactus will reward you with its signature flowers.

Things You'll Need

• Potting mix
• Perlite
• Fertilizer

Instructions

1. Plant your white orchid cactus in a very well-draining pot. They should be planted in a mixture of half African violet mix and half cactus mix. Perlite can be added to the soil to keep it light and well-draining.

2. Water your white orchid cactus regularly, but judiciously. They should only be watered when the soil begins to dry out, but never let the soil completely dry out. Water the soil around the base of the plant. The water should drain quickly away from the plant. Do not let the soil become soggy, as this will cause root rot of your white orchid cactus.

3. Fertilize your white orchid cactus regularly to help support flower development. White orchid cactus may be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilize from spring to fall, and do not fertilize in the winter when the white orchid cactus is dormant.

4. Mist your white orchid cactus if you are in a low-humidity environment. White orchid cacti prefer high humidity, and will appreciate the extra moisture. Do not mist your white orchid cactus while it is in bloom.

5. Place your white orchid cactus in an area with filtered light. An indoor white orchid cactus will do well in a window that has morning sun exposure. They can be grown outside, as long as they are not exposed to full sun. A shady spot under a large tree is an ideal location.

6. Set your white orchid cactus in a cool place at night, during winter. Do not provide artificial lighting at night in winter, either. This helps the epiphyllum develop flower buds.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not move your white orchid cactus once it has developed flower buds. This can cause the buds to drop off. Once the flowers have opened, the plant can be moved.

References

• Forest or Jungle Cacti
• Planting and Growing Instructions