Introducing...
Epiphyllum
Common name: orchid cactus
These unusual succulent houseplants are grown for their spectacular flowers and long trailing stems. The flowers can reach up to 30cm (1ft) across and are often richly fragrant.
Looks
In spring or summer, these succulent plants produce large, exotic, multi-petalled flowers in a choice of colours, including red, white, pink and yellow. The flat, leaf-like stems cascade over the sides of their container.
Likes
These tropical plants like warm, humid conditions and regular watering from spring to autumn, with a cooler, drier spell in winter. They are tender, so must be kept above 10°C (50°F), and prefer bright, filtered light.
Dislikes
Despite being cacti, these tropical forest-dwellers dislike extremely dry conditions and strong summer sunshine. Equally, they can't cope with waterlogging or cold temperatures.
Did you know?
A quick and easy way to grow new plants is to take stem cuttings. These root readily, as long as the cut end is left to dry out for a few days first. The resulting plants can reach flowering size in only a year.
Growing guide
How to grow epiphyllum
All you need to know to grow epiphyllum (orchid cacti) successfully.
Useful advice
Houseplants for different locations
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.