Salmon Epiphyllum

Reference : EPI-SAU-000

The Salmon Epiphyllum, also known as the Orchid Cactus, is a succulent plant native to Central and South America. This epiphytic plant grows naturally on trees and rocks in tropical and subtropical regions. Epiphyllum belongs to the cactus family and is characterised by its large, colourful and fragrant flowers that bloom mainly at night. This variety of Epiphyllum flowers during the day.

Description

Salmon Epiphyllum is an epiphytic plant that can grow to a height of 3 metres, but is usually grown as a pot plant. It has flat, broad, leaf-like stems that are dark green and slightly ribbed. The stems are generally thornless, although some species may have small spines. The flowers of the Epiphyllum can grow up to 20 centimetres in diameter and come in a variety of colours from white to red, pink, yellow and orange. The flowers are trumpet-shaped with long stamens and a delicate fragrance.

How do I grow the Salmon Epiphyllum?

The Salmon Epiphyllum is an easy to grow plant that tolerates a wide range of conditions. It prefers bright but indirect light and should be watered regularly in summer and sparingly in winter.

Between April and September, it is recommended to water your Epiphyllum plant once or twice a week. When the first flower buds appear, it is advisable to add a potassium-rich fertiliser to the water every fortnight. After flowering, it is important to respect a rest period by reducing watering to the minimum necessary to avoid wilting of the plant.

How do I take Epiphyllum cuttings?

Epiphyllum can also be grown from stem cuttings, which should be taken in spring or summer and allowed to dry before planting in well-drained soil.

  • Prepare a pot filled with a well-drained soil mix, such as a cactus mix or a perlite/vermiculite mix.
  • Cut a healthy, sturdy stem of the Epiphyllum, about 15-20 centimetres long. Make sure the cut is clean and straight.
  • Let the cutting air dry for a few hours to allow the cut to heal and form a scab.
  • Place the cutting in the prepared soil and press gently to secure it in place. Make sure the cutting is planted vertically.
  • Water the cutting lightly and place it in a bright but shady spot away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy, and avoid overwatering.
  • After a few weeks the cutting should start to form new roots. You can check by tugging lightly on the cutting to see if it is rooted.
  • Once the cutting is rooted, you can start watering it normally and transfer it to a larger pot if necessary.

It is important to note that taking cuttings can be a delicate process and not all cuttings are successful. It is therefore recommended to take several cuttings at a time to increase the chances of success.

Where do I place my Salmon Epiphyllum?

Epiphyllum is mainly grown for its beautiful flowers, which are often used for indoor and outdoor decoration. It can also be used as a houseplant because of its ease of care and its ability to tolerate varying light conditions. The flowers of the Epiphyllum are also popular with beekeepers as they provide an important source of nectar for bees.

How and when should I prune my Salmon Epiphyllum?

To rejuvenate your Salmon Epiphyllum, it is recommended to remove the oldest stems at the base, near the substrate. However, it is important not to cut the young stems that will be used for renewal. These stems are initially upright but become more and more pendulous as they grow and age.

Caracteristics
Sunshine
-
Type of use
Pot or Tray
Dominant colour
Red - Salmon
Type of Flower
Double
Average height
Flowering period
-
Frost Resistance
Low resistance
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