Epicactus

Epicactus are spectacular flowering plants developed from epiphytic cactus species native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America. The modern Epicactus seen in gardens today are highly bred hybrids, selected for their large, vibrant blooms and relatively easy care.

Often referred to as orchid cacti due to their growth habit and exotic flowers, these plants produce stunning blooms in shades of white, pink, red, orange, and bi-colours—making them a standout feature in any collection.

What is an Epicactus?

Epicactus is a general term used for hybrid epiphytic cacti, primarily derived from Epiphyllum and related genera. In their natural environment, these plants grow attached to trees rather than in soil, drawing moisture and nutrients from organic debris and humid air.

This epiphytic habit influences how they should be grown in cultivation—favouring free-draining mixes, filtered light, and consistent (but not excessive) moisture.

Why Grow Epicactus?

Epicactus are grown primarily for their extraordinary flowers, but they also offer practical benefits for gardeners.

• Large, colourful, often fragrant blooms
• Ideal for hanging baskets and containers
• Suitable for patios, verandahs, and indoor bright spaces
• Long-lived and low maintenance once established
• Excellent for adding vertical and trailing interest

Growing Conditions for Epicactus

Start with Epicactus gigantea, its fairly easy to grow. Try a large free draining pot, keep moist but not to wet and try not to let them dry out.

Light Requirements

Epicactus thrive in bright, filtered light. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which can scorch the flattened stems.

A position under 50–70% shade cloth or beneath a covered verandah works well, especially in Australian conditions.

Potting Mix

A loose, open potting mix is essential to mimic their natural growing conditions.

A suitable mix may include:

• Quality potting mix
• Pine bark (orchid-grade)
• Perlite or coarse sand for drainage

Good airflow around the roots is critical to prevent rot.

Watering

Epicactus prefer consistent moisture but should never sit in soggy soil.

• Water regularly during spring and summer
• Allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between watering
• Reduce watering in winter

Overwatering is the most common cause of failure.

Temperature and Climate

Being tropical in origin, Epicactus prefer warm, stable temperatures.

• Ideal range: 15–28°C
• Protect from frost and cold winds
• In high rainfall or humidity, grow under cover to control moisture

Growth Habit and Containers

Epicactus produce long, flattened, trailing stems that make them ideal for elevated displays.

• Best grown in hanging baskets or raised containers
• Prefer to be slightly pot-bound rather than over-potted
• Repot only when necessary

Feeding for Better Flowering

To encourage strong flowering:

• Use a low-nitrogen fertiliser
• Apply during the growing season
• Supplement with seaweed-based fertilisers to support root health

Excess nitrogen can lead to lush growth at the expense of flowers.

Flowering Tips

Epicactus can take time to establish, but flowering improves with maturity.

• Provide a cooler, drier rest period in winter
• Avoid moving plants once buds form
• Ensure adequate light without direct sun

If growing from cuttings, remove flower buds in the first year to allow the plant to establish.

Common Problems

• Overwatering: Leads to root rot and stem collapse
• Lack of flowering: Often due to too much nitrogen or insufficient light
• Sunburn: Caused by exposure to harsh direct sunlight
• Bud drop: Can occur if plants are moved or stressed

Landscaping and Display Ideas

Epicactus are highly versatile in design applications:

• Hanging baskets: Ideal for showcasing trailing growth
• Covered patios: Adds colour and interest to outdoor living spaces
• Indoor feature plants: Suitable for bright, indirect light areas
• Shade houses: Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts

They pair well with orchids, ferns, and other epiphytic plants in tropical-style settings.

Propagation

Epicactus are easily propagated from cuttings.

• Allow cut ends to callous before planting
• Use a free-draining mix
• Keep slightly moist until roots develop

Patience is required, as new plants take time to establish.

A Note on Naming

The term “Epicactus” is commonly used in horticulture, but most plants sold under this name are Epiphyllum hybrids rather than true species. Named cultivars are widely available, often bred specifically for flower size, colour, and performance.

Epiphyllum and Epicactus are terms often used interchangeably, however there is a subtle but important difference between the two.

Epiphyllum – The True Species

Epiphyllum refers to a genus of epiphytic cacti native to Central and South America. These are the original species, typically found growing on trees in warm, humid forest environments.

They tend to have:

• Flatter, less showy flowers (in many species)
• A more natural, less refined growth habit
• Botanical naming (true species classification)

Some species are still grown by collectors, although they are less common in general nurseries. Around 10 species are recognised including:

• Epiphyllum baueri — White flowers; fragrance unknown; broad flat stems, epiphytic growth.
• Epiphyllum cartagense — White-cream, fragrant flowers; night-blooming; elongated flattened stems.
• Epiphyllum chrysocardium — White, fragrant blooms; fern-like deeply lobed stems.
• Epiphyllum grandilobum — Cream-white flowers; likely lightly scented; large lobed stems.
• Epiphyllum hookeri — White flowers; usually delicate fragrance; large, trailing flat stems.
• Epiphyllum laui — White to pale pink flowers; night-blooming, slender stems.
• Epiphyllum oxypetalum — Large white, strongly fragrant blooms; night-blooming, queen-of-the-night.
• Epiphyllum phyllanthus — Small white, scented flowers; climbing habit, narrow petals.
• Epiphyllum pumilum — White, sweet-scented flowers; smaller plant with climbing stems.
• Epiphyllum thomasianum — White flowers; fragrance slight or absent; distinctive flattened epiphytic stems.

Epicactus – The Hybrids

Epicactus is a horticultural term used to describe hybrids developed from Epiphyllum and related genera.

These are the plants most gardeners will encounter.

• Bred for larger, more colourful flowers
• Wide range of colours including reds, pinks, whites, oranges, and bi-colours
• More compact or controlled growth habits
• Widely available in nurseries and online

In simple terms, if you are buying a plant for its flowers, it is almost certainly an Epicactus hybrid rather than a true Epiphyllum species.

Why the Confusion?

The confusion comes from naming conventions. Many Epicactus hybrids are still labelled as Epiphyllum in nurseries, especially in older plant lists or general retail settings.

Links and Resources
The Cactus Society of Queensland
Wikipedia
Epiphyllum Society of America
San Diego Epiphyllum Society

Where To Buy