Origin and Common Names
Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn., also known as Hooker’s Orchid Cactus, is a species of epiphytic cacti that belongs to the family Cactaceae. It is native to Central and South America, specifically in Brazil, Peru, and Argentina. In Brazil, it is commonly called “Flor de Maio”, which means May flower, as it blooms in May.
Appearance
Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn. has flat, elongated, and leaf-like branches, which can reach up to 1 meter in length. The branches are dark green with a smooth surface and wavy margins. It produces a spectacular display of blooms that are large, showy, and fragrant. The flowers are funnel-shaped, with a diameter of 15-20 cm and can be in a range of shades such as white, yellow, pink, orange, and red.
Uses
Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn. is grown for its ornamental value, mainly for its stunning flowers. It is relatively easy to grow and can be propagated by cuttings. The plant does not have spines or thorns, making it safe and easy to handle. Its flowers are often used in floral arrangements and can last up to 3 days. Its branches are also used in weaving baskets and making handicrafts.
Light Requirements
Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn. thrives best in bright indirect light. It should be placed near a sunny window but not in direct sunlight, as it may scorch the leaves. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that receives bright light for at least 6 hours every day.
Temperature Requirements
Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn. prefers warm temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (60-80°F). It is advisable to keep it above 10°C (50°F), as it is not frost-tolerant. Sudden temperature changes may cause stress to the plant, leading to stunted growth and dropped leaves.
Soil Requirements
Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn. grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should be loose and friable to promote good root growth and water drainage. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite in equal proportions is ideal for planting Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn.
Cultivation
Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn. is a terrestrial or epiphytic cactus that requires a warm, humid, and partially shaded environment to thrive.
If grown indoors, it should be placed near a window where it can receive plenty of indirect sunlight. If grown outdoors, it should be placed under a shade cloth or other sheltered location to protect the plant from direct sunlight and excessive rain.
The soil for Epiphyllum phyllanthus should be well-draining and mixed with sand, peat moss, or other organic materials. The pH level of the soil should be between 5.5 and 6.5.
Watering Needs
Epiphyllum phyllanthus should be watered regularly during the growing season (spring and summer) and sparingly during the dormant season (fall and winter).
When watering, it is best to saturate the soil until water runs out of the bottom of the pot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent overwatering and root rot.
Fertilization
Epiphyllum phyllanthus should be fertilized monthly during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
It is best to use a fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (N-P-K). Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season as the plant does not require as much nutrients during this time.
Pruning
Epiphyllum phyllanthus should be pruned annually during the dormant season to promote new growth and maintain its shape.
The pruning should be done with a clean, sharp tool and should focus on removing dead or damaged branches and thinning out the plant to improve its overall appearance.
Be sure to wear gloves when pruning as the plant has small spines that can cause irritation.
Propagation of Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn.
Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw. var. hookeri (Haw.) Kimn. can be propagated through various methods, including:
Leaf cutting propagation
The leaf cutting propagation method involves cutting a healthy leaf from the parent plant and allowing it to dry for several days until the leaf edges have calloused. Once calloused, the cutting is placed in a container filled with soil or a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until roots and new growth form.
Stem cutting propagation
The stem cutting propagation method involves taking a healthy stem cutting from the parent plant and allowing it to dry for several days until the cut area has calloused. Once calloused, the cutting is placed in a container filled with soil or a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until roots and new growth form.
Division propagation
The division propagation method involves dividing the root ball of a mature plant into several sections. Each section should have several stems and roots and should be potted in a well-draining potting mix. The divided sections should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until new growth forms.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation involves collecting seeds from the parent plant and sowing them in a seed-starting mix. The seeds should be kept moist and placed in a warm and humid environment until they germinate. Once germinated, the seedlings should be transplanted into individual containers filled with a well-draining potting mix and grown under proper light and watering conditions until they are ready to be transplanted into their permanent location.
Disease Management
Epiphyllum phyllanthus var. hookeri is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves and stems, which can lead to tissue death. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant parts and treat with a copper-based fungicide.
- Bacterial Soft Rot: This disease is caused by bacteria that cause the plant tissue to become mushy and watery. The leaves will turn yellow and wilt, and the stem will feel soft and spongy. Disinfect any pruning tools before cutting away any infected tissue, and apply a copper-based fungicide.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering, which leads to fungal growth that rots the plant's roots. To manage this disease, reduce watering, remove any infected plant parts, and treat with a fungicide that contains thiophanate-methyl.
Pest Management
The most common pests that affect Epiphyllum phyllanthus var. hookeri are:
- Spider Mites: These pests are small, arachnid-like insects that suck the sap out of the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, keep the humidity levels high around the plant, use insecticidal soap, or treat with neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These pests are white, fluffy insects that resemble bits of cotton. They suck the sap from the plant and produce a sticky honeydew substance that can attract other pests or encourage fungal growth. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, or treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale Insects: These pests look like small, brown bumps on the plant's stems or leaves. They suck the sap from the plant and produce a sticky honeydew substance that can attract other pests or encourage fungal growth. To manage scale insects, remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, or treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
