Characteristics, Shape, and Color of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum
This article provides netizens with methods and precautions for cultivating Epiphyllum Oxypetalum at home, as well as knowledge about its characteristics, shape, and color. Let's follow the editor to explore the details!
The phrase "Epiphyllum Oxypetalum blooms briefly" is probably familiar to everyone, indicating that the flowering period of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is very short and it blooms at night. Therefore, it is not easy to witness the blooming of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum. However, with the progress of science and the development of society, one can cultivate a potted Epiphyllum Oxypetalum to enjoy its beauty!
The flowering period of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is from June to October, and the flowers usually bloom from 9 am to 4 am, lasting approximately 4 hours. Epiphyllum Oxypetalum requires high humidity and low temperature to bloom. The humidity is higher and the temperature is lower at night, hence the flower's nickname "Beauty under the Moonlight" due to its nocturnal blooming.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is not only ornamental but can also be used for soups and is a nutritious ingredient.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is so rare, is it easy to cultivate?
In fact, Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is one of the easiest plants to cultivate. It is native to South Africa and Mexico and is a tropical plant that does not tolerate frost, which is why it is rarely seen in the north.
Since overwintering can be an issue, with the advancement of air conditioning, those with conditions can be fortunate enough to cultivate one. Northern growers should maintain temperatures above 10 degrees Celsius during the winter.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum belongs to the Cactaceae family and is generally a plant that can tolerate full sun, but it cannot be exposed to direct sunlight. It is a succulent plant that prefers semi-shade and semi-sunlight and has some characteristics of succulents.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum prefers moist soil, so except for the dormant period in winter, it is necessary to keep the soil fertile and moist for the plant to grow well.
Characteristics, Shape, and Color of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum prefers slightly acidic soil, so when preparing the soil, it needs to be acidified. You can choose forest soil or peat soil, or purchase nutrient-rich soil, which is loose and well-ventilated. When preparing the soil yourself, you need to add foam particles.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum thrives in a moist and humid environment, so in addition to winter, it is necessary to spray water on the leaves twice a day (or place a small humidifier nearby).
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is prone to waterlogging, so when watering, pay attention to the soil's dryness. It is okay to water when it slightly appears dry. When watering, it is advisable to use sunlight-exposed tap water, as directly tap water is not suitable for use.
Watering can be combined with fertilizing by adding a few drops of vinegar to acidify the water, which can slow down soil alkalization. It is important to change the soil every 1-2 years, as the soil in the pot usually becomes alkaline and compacted after about 2 years.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum can bloom from early summer to late autumn. Therefore, cultivating Epiphyllum Oxypetalum requires a lot of fertilizer because it continuously blooms and consumes many nutrients. Besides winter, it is necessary to fertilize every 10 days to prevent the lack of nutrients after the flowers fall, which could prevent further blooming.
The continuous blooming of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is also related to sunlight. Insufficient light during maintenance can lead to discontinuous blooming. It is best to let the Epiphyllum Oxypetalum plant receive scattered light.
Therefore, as long as the temperature does not exceed 35 degrees Celsius, there is no need for shading. However, during the summer midday period (approximately 10:30-15:30), it is necessary to shade and avoid direct sunlight.
In fact, when it comes to fertilizing and watering, the editor of the Green Enthusiast website, Old Li, prefers to use diluted milk or cooked beans (just pick out a few beans from congee), and a little sugar can also be diluted. Anything edible by humans can be used as fertilizer, just not in excess.
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is a shallow-rooted plant and does not tolerate drought. It is important to replenish water in case of drought. During the winter dormant period, the root absorption is weak, so it is best to stop watering and fertilizing unless the soil is dry.
The above sharing of methods and precautions for cultivating Epiphyllum Oxypetalum at home, as well as its characteristics, shape, and color, is hoped to be helpful to you!