Pot Size: 3.5"
Accepted Scientific Name: Epiphyllum 'Christine Paetz'
Origin and Habitat:
Epiphyllum hybrids trace their ancestry to epiphytic cacti native to Central and South America, where they thrive in humid, shaded forests. These plants typically grow on tree trunks and branches, or occasionally among rocks, absorbing moisture from rainfall and humid air. In such environments, filtered sunlight passes through dense canopies, creating the dappled light conditions these plants prefer. The hybrid ‘Christine Paetz’ was bred for ornamental value, continuing the tradition of developing Epiphyllum cultivars that exhibit remarkable floral displays and are cultivated worldwide in greenhouses and indoor collections.
Description:
Epiphyllum 'Christine Paetz' is a spectacular hybrid with long, arching flat stems that can reach 18–24 inches, creating a cascading growth habit. Its flowers are impressive, averaging 6–8 inches in diameter, with broad overlapping petals arranged in a layered star-like form. The blooms display rich red orange coloration with splashes of cream. Petals becoming slightly pink towards the center. making them highly ornamental. The blossoms open fully, creating a vivid, tropical focal point that highlights this hybrid’s beauty.
Cultivation:
Zone: Suitable for Zones 10–11; protect in cooler climates by growing indoors or in greenhouses.
Temperature: Prefers 15–27°C; avoid prolonged exposure below 5°C.
Growth rate: Moderate, with rapid development in warm, humid, and bright conditions.
Soil: Best grown in a well-draining organic mix supplemented with pumice to maintain aeration.
Watering: Keep evenly moist during active growth and flowering; reduce watering slightly during dormancy in winter.
Fertilizing: Use a diluted, balanced fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during spring and summer.
Light: Thrives in bright, indirect light; direct sunlight may scorch the stems.
Pests and diseases: May be susceptible to mealybugs, scale, aphids, and fungal rot if overwatered or grown without proper air circulation.
Propagation:
Propagate easily from stem cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus before planting in a well-draining substrate.
