Leaf cacti are available in numerous species, which differ not only in the shape and color of their flowers, but also in their care requirements. Only if this is optimal can the leaf cactus develop its beautiful flowers.
Leaf cacti are also called epiphyllum or epi cactus
The most famous types of leaf cactus are the Christmas cactus and the Easter cactus. But there are a number of other species that even belong to different genera.
In nature, leaf cactus species live almost exclusively on the leaves of other plants. They are therefore called epiphytic. Indoors, the non-frost-hardy cacti are usually grown as hybrids because they are more resilient.
The types of leaf cactus differ in the color and size of the flowers. All flower colors are represented except blue. Depending on the species, the flowers can grow up to 20 centimeters in size. Some species give off a strong scent. Leaf cactus species do not have spines or only have them very weakly.
Leaf cactus species do not tolerate drought well
Unlike other types of cactus, the leaf cactus cannot cope with complete drought. It needs to be watered regularly in summer. However, waterlogging must not occur.
Cactus soil is not suitable as a substrate because it contains too few nutrients. Therefore, plant a leaf cactus in special leaf cactus soil (€9.00 on Amazon) or put it together yourself from garden soil and sand.
Some species need several hours of darkness
If a young leaf cactus doesn't bloom, it's completely normal. Most species do not bloom until they are several years old. They do not produce flowers until they are five years old.
Some varieties of leaf cactus need several hours of complete darkness every day after flowering, otherwise they will not bloom. This includes the variety Schlumbergera.
In winter, leaf cacti need to be kept cooler so that they can produce flowers. If it's too warm all year round, it won't bloom. You also have to water leaf cacti during wintering, but the amount of watering is noticeably reduced so that the substrate is only just moist.
Tip
All leaf cactus species can be easily propagated from cuttings or seeds. You can cut cuttings in spring or summer.
