Genus · Cactaceae
Epiphyllum
3 species tracked in Horta’s catalog, and the named cultivars growers keep. Walk down to a species for its full care record, or into a cultivar for its traits and provenance.
Species in this genus
The ones growers meet most — each links to its own page.
Epiphyllum oxypetalum
Dutchman's Pipe Cactus
A succulent epiphytic cactus from Central American forests, where it grows on tree branches rather than in soil, so it wants a fast-draining, airy mix and bright indirect light rather than harsh direct sun. As a water-storing epiphyte it rots if kept wet, so let the top inch or two of mix dry out before watering again, then water thoroughly. Average household humidity suits it; good airflow matters more than misting.
Epiphyllum hookeri
Nightblooming Cactus
Epiphyllum hookeri is an epiphytic cactus from the tropical forests of Central and South America, where it grows on tree branches in fast-draining leaf litter rather than soil. Give it a loose, airy mix and water only when the top inch or two has dried out, letting it approach dryness between drinks since its roots rot if left sitting wet. It tolerates ordinary household humidity but appreciates good airflow.
Epiphyllum phyllanthus
Climbing Cactus
A succulent epiphytic cactus from the forests of Central and South America, growing on tree branches rather than in soil. It wants a fast-draining, airy mix and bright indirect light, not direct sun. Water only when the top inch of mix has dried; as an epiphyte it drains fast and rots if left sitting wet.
About the genus
A genus-level overview — shared traits, history, the botany that ties these plants together — is on its way. For now, the species and cultivars above and below carry the genus.
Kept true by its growers
Epiphyllum keeps evolving — species move, cultivars appear, IDs get corrected. If you can place an unplaced plant or add a species we’re missing, the whole genus gets truer.
Overview derived from 3 tracked species · the contribute flow arrives with the next slice.