Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot, as these cacti prefer to dry out between waterings.
Also known as Climbing Cactus · Hooker’s Orchid Cactus · Nightblooming Cactus
Hooker's Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum hookeri) is a striking epiphytic cactus native to Mexico and Central America, known for its elegant white, nocturnal flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun, but avoid intense afternoon sun.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings, reduce in winter.
Well-draining cactus or orchid mix
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Ideal between 18-25°C. Cooler temperatures (10-15°C) in winter promote flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy. Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot, as these cacti prefer to dry out between waterings.
Prune to maintain shape or remove damaged stems. Pruning can also encourage branching and more abundant flowering. Use clean, sharp tools and prune after flowering has finished.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus over for a few days before planting in well-draining potting mix. Rooting typically occurs within a few weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Repot in spring, just as new growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Hooker's Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum hookeri)
Where Hooker's Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum hookeri) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Epiphyllum |
| Species | Epiphyllum hookeri |
Similar in genus Epiphyllum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data