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Epiphyllum
Facts
What are
epiphyllums?
Jungle cacti
are commonly known as "epiphyllums". Epiphyllums are true
cacti and are more properly labeled as "Epicacti" or "jungle
cacti".
These hybrids are also known as Flowering
Jungle Cacti or simply Jungle Cacti and at times Orchid Cacti.
Epi’s have evolved
into epiphytic plants which live on the surface of other plants. Epiphytes
take their nourishment from the environment and not from their host plant.
Where do jungle cacti come from?
"The Royal Family of Flowers." Epiphyllums species are found in
the jungles of Mexico, Central and South America.
How many different hybrids are there?
There exists over 13,000 different hybrids. It can take seven to
eight years from seed, to registering the flower. The hybrid has to produce
the same flower for three years consecutively before naming and registering.
Why are there so many different hybrids?
For more than 100 years botanists and
hobbyists have crossed epiphyllum species with other flowering cacti and
have created the colorful day blooming cacti we see today. This passion for
creating new hybrids continues.
When do they bloom?
The major blooming season is April through June, however, there are the
occasional, "off season bloomers" that can surprise us in other
months.
Are they difficult to grow?
No. Jungle cacti are very easy to grow. Propagation is by cuttings
(branches).
They are most at home
in conditions favored by filtered sunlight, regular watering and very good
drainage.
See
our Care Guide for more information
Will I get a
complete, flowering cactus when I order from junglecactus.com?
No. You will be shipped
cuttings (branches) not flowers or plants . These branches will be 6"
to 10" in length. See our shopping guide
for complete information on products, ordering and shipping
What do they look
like?
Most jungle cacti produce long, arching stems that are flat and notched
along the margins. The flowers can be up to 10 inches across and are
available in nearly every color.
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