- Leaf cacti are also known as epiphyllum or epi-cactus
- Leaf cactus species do not tolerate drought well
- Some species need several hours of darkness
There are numerous types of leaf cacti, which not only differ in the shape and color of their flowers, but also in their care requirements. The leaf cactus can only develop its beautiful flowers if this is optimal.
The Christmas cactus is probably the best-known leaf cactus
Leaf cacti are also known as epiphyllum or epi-cactus
The most well-known types of leaf cactus are the Christmas cactus and the Easter cactus. But there are a number of other species that even belong to different genera.
In nature, leaf cactus species live almost exclusively on the leaves of other plants. They are therefore called epiphytic. Indoors, the non-frost-hardy cacti are usually grown as hybrids because they are more resilient.
The types of leaf cacti differ in the color and size of the flowers. Except for blue, all flower colors are represented. Depending on the species, the flowers can grow up to 20 centimeters in size. Some species give off a strong scent. Leaf cactus species do not have spines, or only very weakly.
Leaf cactus species do not tolerate drought well
In contrast to other cactus species, the leaf cactus cannot cope with complete drought. It needs to be watered regularly in the summer. However, waterlogging must not occur.
Cactus soil is not suitable as a substrate because it contains too few nutrients. Therefore, plant a leaf cactus in special leaf cactus soil or put it together yourself from garden soil and sand.
Some species need several hours of darkness
If a young leaf cactus does not bloom, this is quite normal. Most species do not flower until they are several years old. They do not set flowers until they are five years old.
Some varieties of leaf cactus need several hours of complete darkness every day after flowering, otherwise they will not flower. This includes the Schlumbergera variety.
Leaf cacti need to be kept cooler in winter so that they can flower. If they are too warm all year round, they will not flower. You also have to water leaf cacti during the winter, but the amount of water is noticeably reduced, so that the substrate is only just damp.
tips
All types of leaf cacti can be easily propagated from cuttings or seeds. You can cut cuttings in spring or summer.