The Orchid Cactus can be Enjoyed Indoors or Out
The Orchid Cactus can be Enjoyed Indoors or Out
When it comes to the hobby of growing orchids, there are plenty of varieties to keep the orchid enthusiast busy and happy. However, one of the most glorious "orchid" plants is not really an orchid at all, although the name is very much borrowed from these large showy blooms. The orchid cactus is actually a cactus, specifically from the genus of Epiphyllum. This plant is primarily found in Central and South America, but some varieties are also grown in the hot, dry regions of the United States as well as the Caribbean. And for those that appreciate the beauty of the orchid cactus, there are plenty of opportunities for enjoying these beautiful plants inside your home also.
Cactus or Orchid?
While the large, showy blooms of the orchid cactus resemble those of other orchids, this plant is without a doubt a cactus. If you look closely enough, you will even detect the hairlike spines along the leaves and stem that characterize a cactus species. In addition to the name orchid cactus, these plants are also referred to as jungle cactus, which separates them from much of the rest of the desert flora that you might find. Many of the varieties of the orchid cactus will primarily bloom at night, when you will have to look closely through the darkness to find large, beautiful blooms of white or other hues. You can also find some species of orchid cactus that will bloom during the day, and now there are many other color variations available as well, as hybridization has progressed to many other varieties of this plant.
The term "epiphyllum" means "upon the leaf". This refers to the fact that these plants often live on other plant surfaces, which is a typical characteristic for many types of orchids - another commonality between the orchid and the orchid cactus. This does not mean that this plant is parasitic in nature, however. The orchid cactus does not take anything from its host for survival. Instead, it relies on its environment to provide everything it needs to thrive. This is what makes the orchid cactus an epiphyllum instead of a parasite, just like the nature of many orchid plants.
The orchid cactus is plentiful in some environments, but it is also fairly easy for the gardening enthusiast to grow at home. In zones of 10 or higher, these plants can be left outdoors year-round. In cooler climates, it is best to leave these plants indoors until the warmest months of the year. But no matter where you live, you can enjoy the beauty of the orchid cactus indoors and out.