Orchid cactus is a bold houseplant that's not for the faint of heart! Though it's easy to grow, its exotic look will give your friends the impression you're a champion houseplant grower. It has long, flat leaves that twist and curl as they grow, giving orchid cactus its unusual appearance. The leaves trail, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets and tall planters.
If you grow orchid cactus, accent the foliage texture by growing it in a smooth, sleek ceramic container. Or, complement the leaves by growing orchid cactus in a rough-edged pot.
Weight | 1kg |
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Foliage | Varies |
Mature Size | Depends on the species |
Watering | Once every 10 - 14 days |
Light | Direct sunlight (4-6 hours) |
Temperature | Summer: 20-95+°C, Winter: They like cooler weather down to 12°C |
Toxicity | Cactus spines are not poisonous for humans or animals. However, a spine puncture can lodge deep into the skin and even get to the collagen and muscles. It's also crucial to note that a spine can also have bacteria and fungi on its surface that may cause infections in your body. |
Pests | mealybugs, spider mites, whitefly, and scale. Horticultural oils and soaps can be used to treat these. |
Problems | Fusarium oxysporum (Fusarium rot), Macrophomina phaseolina (Charcoal rot), Septoria spp., Helminthosporium cactivorum, and Aspergillus alliaceus (Stem and branch rot). |