Epiphyllum guatemalense ''Monstrose''

Epiphyllum guatemalense 'Monstrose' - Orchid Cactus is a member of the Cactaceae family of plants which include many epiphytic plants such as this one. Epiphyllum guatemalense 'Monstrose' is a jungle cacti which blooms reach 7 inches across with pale outer petals surround the primary inflorescence. Epiphyllum guatemalense 'Monstrose' are commonly called Orchid Cactus due to the blooms resembling orchid blossoms. The flowers are fragrant and usually open at night. Epiphyllum are sensitive to being moved so choosing spot in bright, indirect light would work best. Epiphyllum make excellent hanging basket plants with their beautiful lacy leaves which grow 18 to 36 inches in length when planted in a well drained, sandy cactus mix. 


  • Scientific name: Epiphyllum hookeri subsp. guatemalense
  • Common names: Epiphyllum 'Curly Locks', 'Curly Sue'
  • Synonyms:
    Epiphyllum guatemalense 'Monstrose', Epiphyllum guatemalense, Epiphyllum guatemalense 'Monstrosa', Epiphyllum phyllanthus var. guatemalense, Phyllocactus guatemalensis
  • Family: Cactaceae
  • Subfamily: Cactoideae
  • Tribe: Hylocereeae
  • Genus: Epiphyllum



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How to Grow and Care 

Epiphyllum Guatemalense Monstrose are very easy to grow plants that seem to grow best when neglected. They add a wonderful accent to any back yard garden or patio. In very cold zones a containerized Epiphyllum Guatemalense Monstrose can be brought inside for the winter months.  Most will survive a very light frost and quickly return to normal in spring. In the northern end of their grow zone Epiphyllum Guatemalense Monstrose plants should be brought indoors or protected during the winter months.

When you receive your new plant open your box carefully and water if dry. Please take your time when opening. Most foliage damage occurs when the box is ripped open in the excitement of receiving new plants. Many plants, especially succulents, are fragile and leaves may snap easily if not handled cautiously.

Origin: Epiphyllum guatemalense 'Monstrose' is a native to Guatemala.

Hardiness:  Hardiness USDA Zone 9-11. above 4.5 °C (40 °F)


CONTAINER SIZE

Orchid Cactus Plants grow very well in patio containers. Allow enough room for growth generally a 8″ to a 12″ diameter, 6″ deep container will suffice, however the smaller variety plants will do well in a small 6″ round pot. Remember the looser the roots, the taller and healthier your plant will be. When the plant becomes root bound its growth will slow. At that point it is time for a larger pot.

SOIL

Epiphyllum Guatemalense Monstrose enjoy well drained, sandy cactus mix. Remember try to stay away from wet, mucky soils.

FERTILIZER

To help establish your new Epiphyllum Guatemalense Monstrose, fertilize sparingly, biannually with a slow time release 15-5-10. Unfertilized they will tend to grow very slowly. WARNING – The heavy salts in cheaper fertilizers may damage the roots thus killing the plant.

GROW ZONE & LIGHT


Best outdoors if grown in zone 9b-11, find your zone here. This plant requires 65-80% sunlight. Depending on your location full sun is best. The patio zone is 4b-11 which means the potted plant will flourish over the summer months in this zone but must be brought inside for the winter months. (avoid frost)

Learn more at   HOW TO GROW AND CARE FOR EPIPHYLLUM  



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