Epiphyllum oxypetalum is a type of leaf cactus that is not difficult to care for. This Epiphyllum variety, like Epiphyllum anguliger, is also ideal for beginners. What should you consider when caring for Epiphyllum oxypetalum?
How to properly care for Epiphyllum Oxypetalum?
Caring for Epiphyllum Oxypetalum includes regular watering with low-lime water, fertilizing with leaf cactus fertilizer, occasional repotting, a cool winter quarters and monitoring for diseases and pests. No intensive cutting required.
How to water Epiphyllum oxypetalum?
- Abundant in spring and summer
- no waterlogging!
- water less in winter
- use low-lime water
Unlike other types of cactus, the Epiphyllum needs a lot of water during the growing season. Therefore, water frequently, but do not leave any water standing in the saucer or planter.
Rainwater is best.
Is Epiphyllum fertilized?
Unlike other cactus species, the Epiphyllum does not tolerate cactus fertilizer. Fertilize it at fortnightly intervals with special foliar cactus fertilizer or liquid fertilizer with a low nitrogen content. Reduce the indicated dose by half.
When does the Epiphyllum oxypetalum need to be repotted?
If the old pot becomes too small, pot the Epiphyllum oxypetalum in a larger pot with a drainage hole in the spring. Do not fill the pot with cactus soil, but use potting soil mixed with sand and gravel.
Are you allowed to cut the leaf cactus?
Cutting is not necessary! However, if the epiphyllum becomes too large, you can shorten it. The best time to prune is spring. Cut the shoots back by two thirds.
What diseases and pests do you need to watch out for?
Rotting occurs if you keep the leaf cactus too wet. If there are spots on the leaves, the epiphyllum is suffering from fungal infections or temperatures at the location that are too cool.
Pests that occur:
- Spider mites
- Scale insects
- Thrips
Does the Epiphyllum oxypetalum have to be overwintered?
Basically, you could care for the Epiphyllum in the flower window all year round. However, this is not recommended because the leaf cactus does not produce flowers without a cooler rest period.
In winter, place the Epiphyllum oxypetalum in a place where temperatures are between 12 and 15 degrees. It should never get colder than 10 degrees!
The cooler the location, the less you can water the leaf cactus. Do not fertilize it in winter!
Tip
The flowers of Epiphyllum oxypetalum can grow up to 30 centimeters long and reach a diameter of up to 17 centimeters. The outer petals are reddish in color while the inner ones remain white.