How to grow potted Epiphyllum oxypetalum? A detailed guide to the latest cultivation methods

Epiphyllum oxypetalum, also known as the "Beauty Under the Moon," is a perennial evergreen succulent plant of the genus Epiphyllum in the cactus family. It originates from the tropical forests of Mexico and Central and South America. The old branches are flat, and the young branches are three-angled and club-shaped. The flowering period is from June to October. The flowers are white, large and long, and highly fragrant. Most flowers open in the evening and wither after several hours, hence the saying “a fleeting glimpse of the epiphyllum.” It is commonly cultivated in households across both northern and southern China.

Propagation of Epiphyllum oxypetalum

Propagate by leaf-like stem cuttings. In a greenhouse, cuttings can be taken in all four seasons, but April to May is the best time. For cuttings, choose slightly older, robust leaf-like stems from the previous year (too tender and they rot easily), cut them into 10 cm to 15 cm sections, and let them dry for 2 to 3 days. After the cut surface has dried and sealed, insert them into a rooting medium or sand, with the insertion depth at about 1/3 of the cutting (not too deep). If the soil is moist, do not water for the time being; afterward, keep the soil slightly moist and on the dry side. Roots begin to form in about 20 days, and when the roots grow to 4 cm to 5 cm, the plants can be potted up. With proper care, even 2-year-old seedlings can bloom.

Potting soil selection

Epiphyllum oxypetalum prefers a slightly acidic sandy soil rich in humus, with good drainage, loose and fertile. The general ratio for mixing potting soil is: leaf mold soil : garden soil : sand = 4:4:2. After mixing the soil, it is best to sterilize it by exposing it to the sun. When planting, place a layer of broken tiles or brick pieces at the bottom of the pot to improve aeration and drainage.

Watering at the right time

Epiphyllum oxypetalum prefers moist soil and higher air humidity, and is afraid of waterlogging. When temperatures are low in late autumn, winter, and early spring, it enters a semi-dormant state, so watering should be strictly controlled to keep the potting soil on the dry side; after it dries out completely, just water it lightly. After temperatures rise in spring, it begins to resume growth, and the amount of watering can be gradually increased to keep the soil moist. During vigorous growth, in addition to watering, water should also be sprinkled around the plant to increase air humidity, and ventilation should be strengthened.

Rational fertilization

Epiphyllum oxypetalum relatively likes fertilizer and also has fairly high fertilizer requirements. Well-rotted organic fertilizer is best, plus a small amount of bone meal or superphosphate. Add it when preparing the soil and mix it evenly with the potting soil; the application rate is 1/20 to 1/30 of the potting soil. After new stems grow in spring, begin topdressing. During the growing period, if the leaves turn yellow, apply a 500-fold ferrous sulfate solution once; after flower buds appear, apply a 1000-fold potassium dihydrogen phosphate once; after the flowers fade, increase the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer once every 20 days or so. Fertilization should be stopped in late autumn.

Repotting method

Young Epiphyllum oxypetalum plants are repotted once a year, while established plants are generally repotted once every 2 to 3 years. Repot in spring when the temperature is above 12°C, or in September. Stop watering before repotting so that the potting soil dries and the plant can be removed from the pot; handle it gently when removing it to avoid bumping the plant. After removing it from the pot, remove the old soil outside the roots and prune away dead and broken roots. After planting, place it in partial shade and do not water for the time being; water lightly after 2 days and keep the potting soil on the dry side.