Fishbone cactus boasts many colorful names. Some call them orchid cactus due to their large bright blooms and growth habit. An Orchid cactus (forest type cacti) blooms multi-petalled bright funnel shaped flowers that spread out from 4 - 6 inches, and the foliage can get a little out of control.


Epiphyllum are epiphytic cacti. Name meaning: The genus name “Epiphyllum” means “upon the leaves”. They use their host tree only as physical support. The orchid cactus (Epiphyllum spp.) The cactus follows a seasonal growth cycle where development is halted during cold winter months so that the plant is able to grow flowers and reproduce in the springtime. They'll grow to 2 ft (60 cm) long, and about 2 in (5 cm) wide. Caring for Epiphyllums is a water balancing act. Origins: Tropical rain forests of Central and South America, where they live in treetops. It comes from the Greek words “epi”, which means “on” or “upon”, and “phyllon” meaning “leaf”, because early botanists considered that the flower came from a leaf, which are actually stems..

It’s much easier and faster to grow from cuttings, which is the common way to propagate these plants. Orchid Cactus have some of the most spectacular springtime blooms. Big, cup-shaped blooms in gorgeous colors make orchid cactus a joy to grow. On mature plants, waves of flowers open over several weeks during their blooming cycle.
Botanical Name: Epiphyllum spp. Ric Rac, Zigzag and Fishbone orchid cactus are just a few of these descriptive monikers. Orchid cactus stems are broad and flat with serrated edges.

How much sun, shade, water and care does it need? The names refer to the alternate pattern of the leaves along a central spine that resembles a fish skeleton. The orchid cactus blooms in large, showy, bright-colored flowers, typically from April through July. Everblooming Orchid Cactus is a beautiful, long flowering easy to grow (not your typical) cactus.

A cactus planted in a 4-inch (10 cm) pot will flower quicker than one in an 8-inch (20 cm) pot. Their succulent foliage and drought tolerant nature make them perfect for easy care. The names refer to the alternate pattern of the leaves along a central spine that resembles a fish skeleton. [1] X Research source If you already own an epiphyllum cactus that is strong and healthy, you can make your cuttings. Obtain epiphyllum cactus cuttings.

The orchid cactus will bloom on a night between June and October, so if your orchid cactus produces buds, make sure to check it regularly, since you do not want to miss the rare and annual chance to watch the beautiful flower after so long a wait.

Cacti aren't generally known for their flowers, making it easy to believe that only a few cactus varieties develop them. Aug 6, 2019 - SucculentCity.com is the internet's largest Cactus + Succulent community. Growing Gorgeous Flowers. Which Cactus Has Petals Like a Flower?. This is a tropical cactus, and will need to be watered frequently.

Get expert gardening tips on the ORCHID CACTUS. Cactus cuttings are sections of a mature stem which are planted and used to grow a whole new plant.

Their habit makes a hanging basket their ideal vessel. The plant is also known as “Orchid Cactus” because of the flowers which resemble some orchid species.

The trick to flowering spring blooming Orchid Cactus or Clivias is to provide the right growing conditions nine months earlier. This produces a giant, gaping orchid-like flower with outrageous color and form. Proud to offer 1000s of succulent care articles, DIY ideas & more! Here are a few tips on how to grow Epiphyllum and achieve healthy plants.

They can also be potted in a regular container that is placed high on a shelf. With an orchid cactus, the trick to growing bright, beautiful flowers each year is to plan ahead. To propagate, cut off a 4 to the 6-inch-long segment in the springtime.