Family: Cactaceae
Author: (L.) Haw.
Bibliography: Syn. Pl. Succ.: 197 (1812)
Year: 1812
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Epiphyllum
Vegetable: False
Observations: C. Mexico to NE. Argentina
Description
Epiphyllum phyllanthus, commonly known as the climbing cactus, is a fascinating member of the Cactaceae family that can be found thriving from Central Mexico to Northeastern Argentina. This distinctive cactus captivates plant enthusiasts and botanists alike with its remarkable adaptability and unique growth habits.
The climbing cactus stands out due to its epiphytic nature, meaning it often grows on other plants for support. This growth pattern allows it to thrive in environments ranging from tropical rainforests to arid habitats, where it ingeniously makes use of available structures to climb and extend its reach towards light and moisture.
Distinguished by flattened, leaf-like stems that are delicate yet resilient, the climbing cactus can produce stunning, large white to pinkish flowers. These blossoms usually open at night, filling the surrounding air with a pleasant fragrance while attracting nocturnal pollinators like bats and moths. The flowers’ ephemeral beauty enhances its reputation as a remarkable and exotic plant.
Cultivating Epiphyllum phyllanthus can be highly rewarding due to its ease of care and rapid growth. It is a robust species that can adapt to various light conditions, although it flourishes best in bright, indirect sunlight. It also prefers well-draining soil, and while it can withstand periods of drought, regular watering during the growing season helps maintain its vigor.
Despite its adaptability, the climbing cactus can sometimes face challenges such as root rot if overwatered or infestations of pests like mealybugs and spider mites. Hence, ensuring good air circulation and monitoring moisture levels can contribute to a healthier plant.
In sum, the climbing cactus is a versatile and attractive species that offers both aesthetic and ecological value. Whether grown in botanical gardens, as a houseplant, or in its natural habitat, Epiphyllum phyllanthus enchants with its elegant flowers and enduring spirit, continuing to inspire admiration and study among plant lovers and botanists.
Common Names
Por: pitainha
Eng: climbing cactus
En: Climbing cactus
Zh: 廣佈曇花
Fr: Latcho caïman
Pt: Pitainha
Synonyms
- Cactus phyllanthus (L.)
- Cereus phyllanthus ((L.) DC.)
- Phyllocactus speciosus (Kostel.)
- Opuntia phyllanthus ((L.) Mill.)
- Phyllocactus phyllanthus ((L.) Link)
Distribution
- Argentina Northeast (native)
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Brazil West-Central (native)
- Cayman Is. (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- El Salvador (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Paraguay (native)
- Peru (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Uruguay (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Assam (introduced)
Additional Images
Habit
Taken Jul 29, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Mar 4, 2021 by Gasser Nadia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 15, 2022 by Sato Marilia (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 13, 2018 by Trindade Ester (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 5, 2022 by IVONE VINCENZI (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 29, 2022 by Trap Hers (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Aug 16, 2020 by Cerquín Marily (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 21, 2021 by Ortega Danna (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 7, 2021 by plantes mamisol (cc-by-sa)
Taken Feb 15, 2022 by Michael Pineda (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 14, 2021 by Thainá Cristina (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Jul 16, 2022 by López Lucy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 16, 2022 by López Lucy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 16, 2022 by López Lucy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 29, 2022 by Liliana Salgado (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 18, 2019 by Natasha (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken May 19, 2022 by Monteiro Henrique (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 18, 2022 by Almeida Cilene (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 16, 2022 by López Lucy (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Nov 27, 2021 by robinpbt (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5384030)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:132939-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Epiphyllum phyllanthus (L.) Haw.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Subshrub, Shrub