Cactus Flower Plant:
Indoor Growing Tips for a Lush and Healthy Plant

If you’re looking for an attractive houseplant that’s easy to care for, the cactus flower plant (Epiphyllum spp.) is an excellent choice. This tropical plant is native to Central and South America and features large, showy blooms that come in a range of colors, from white and pink to red and purple.

Cactus flower plants are also known as orchid cacti, due to their resemblance to orchids. These plants are epiphytes, which means they grow on other plants in their natural habitat. In cultivation, they are typically grown in hanging baskets or containers with well-draining soil.

Here are some indoor growing tips to help you keep your cactus flower plant healthy and thriving:

Light

Cactus flower plants prefer bright, indirect light. They can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch their leaves. Place your plant near a south-facing window that receives filtered light or provide it with artificial grow lights.

Temperature

Cactus flower plants prefer warm temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). Avoid exposing them to extreme temperature changes or drafts.

Watering

Cactus flower plants are succulents, which means they store water in their leaves and stems. They are drought-tolerant and prefer infrequent watering. Water your plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Humidity

Cactus flower plants prefer low humidity levels. You don’t need to provide any additional humidity unless you live in a very dry climate.

Fertilizer

Feed your cactus flower plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Reduce fertilization in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant.

Pruning

Prune your cactus flower plant after it finishes flowering to encourage bushier growth. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to remove spent blooms and any dead or damaged stems.

Repotting

Cactus flower plants prefer to be slightly root-bound, so you don’t need to repot them often. When you do repot, use a well-draining potting mix and a container that’s only slightly larger than the current one.

By following these indoor growing tips, you can ensure that your cactus flower plant stays healthy and produces beautiful blooms year after year.

FAQ

Q: Can I grow cactus flower plants outdoors?

A: Yes, if you live in a warm climate with mild winters, you can grow cactus flower plants outdoors year-round. Plant them in well-draining soil in a location with bright, indirect light.

Q: How often should I water my cactus flower plant?

A: Water your plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Depending on your home’s temperature and humidity levels, this may be once every week or two.

Q: Why isn’t my cactus flower plant blooming?

A: Cactus flower plants require bright light and warm temperatures to bloom. If your plant isn’t blooming, it may not be getting enough light or may be exposed to temperature fluctuations. Additionally, these plants require a period of cool temperatures (around 50°F/10°C) for several weeks in the fall to initiate blooming.

Q: Can I propagate my cactus flower plant?

A: Yes! Cactus flower plants are easy to propagate from stem cuttings. Simply take a 6-inch cutting from the stem of the plant and allow it to dry out for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not wet until roots form.