Epiphyllum ‘King Midas’ (Orchid Cactus)

Epiphyllum ‘King Midas, commonly known as Orchid Cactus, is a beautiful and popular epiphytic cactus prized for its vibrant blooms and cascading growth habit.

The Orchid Cactus is a member of the Cactaceae family, which also includes the popular Chrismas cactus, prickly pear (opuntia), pincushion cactus (mammillaria), and the iconic saguaro cactus and San Pedro cactus.

Description

Epiphyllum ‘King Midas’ is a striking epiphytic cactus hybrid, prized for its large, vibrant peachy-orange blooms. As with most Epiphyllum species, it has long, flat, leaf-like stems that cascade gracefully, making it ideal for hanging baskets or elevated planters. The vivid flowers can reach impressive sizes, creating a dramatic contrast with the green stems. Its showy blooms and easy-care nature make it a popular choice among plant collectors and gardeners who are drawn to exotic and tropical species.

Native Habitat

The Epiphyllum genus is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Central and South America, where plants grow in humid forests. Epiphyllum ‘King Midas’ is a hybrid cultivar bred for its unique flower color and size. While it doesn’t exist naturally in the wild, it retains the epiphytic nature of its parent species, thriving in humid, filtered light environments.

Plant Type and Habit

This erect, perennial cactus has a trailing growth habit and long, flat, leaf-like stems.

Plant Size

This is a relatively compact plant. Its trailing stems can grow between 12 to 36 inches (30 to 90 cm) tall and wide.

Cactus Flowers

The flowers are its most striking feature. The large, golden-yellow to peachy-orange blooms can measure up to 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) in diameter, making them a stunning focal point. These funnel-shaped flowers are rich in color, with multiple layers of petals that give them a luxurious, full appearance. The blooms are nocturnal, often opening at night and lasting several days, providing visual appeal and a pleasant scent.

They bloom primarily in spring, although with the right care and growing conditions, it may also bloom in late summer or early fall. Each bloom lasts for a few days, but the plant can produce multiple flowers during its blooming season, extending the period of visual interest.

Stem and Spines

The stems are flat, fleshy, and leaf-like, characteristic of epiphytic cacti. They are segmented and can be green to dark green, with new growth often tinged with red. The stems grow cascading, making the plant well-suited for hanging containers.

Unlike many other cacti, Epiphyllum ‘King Midas’ does not have prominent spines. It may have tiny bristle-like structures at the areoles, but these are generally soft and not sharp, making it safe to handle.

Hardiness

This orchid cactus thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-11 and requires a warm, humid environment. It is not frost-hardy and should be kept in temperatures above 50°F (10°C). In cooler climates, it can be grown indoors or in a greenhouse to protect it from frost.

Uses

• Ornamental: The primary use of this orchid cactus is as an ornamental plant, both indoors and outdoors. Its cascading habit makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or containers on patios, where its striking red blooms can be fully appreciated.
• Living Walls: Because of its epiphytic nature, it can also be used in living walls or as part of an epiphytic plant display.

Toxicity

This orchid cactus is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. However, like all plants, it should not be ingested in large quantities by pets or children, as it could cause mild digestive upset.

Drought Tolerance

As an epiphytic cactus, it is adapted to store water in its stems, allowing it to tolerate periods of dryness. However, it is not as drought-tolerant as desert cacti. It prefers regular watering during its growing season

Invasiveness

This orchid actus is not considered invasive. It grows slowly and is primarily propagated through cuttings or seeds in controlled environments, and it does not pose a threat to native ecosystems.

Benefits

• Aesthetic Appeal: It offers tremendous ornamental value due to its colorful, exotic blooms and trailing habit. It’s a popular choice for hanging baskets, where its long stems can cascade freely.
• Low Maintenance: Once established, it requires minimal care, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced gardeners.

Orchid Cactus Care

Light: Epiphyllum ‘King Midas’ thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the plant’s delicate stems, so place it in a spot where it receives filtered light, such as near a window with sheer curtains. It can tolerate some early morning sun but should be protected from the harsh midday rays.

Soil: Use a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mix. A combination of cactus mix with added perlite or bark works well. As an epiphyte, it thrives in loose, airy soils that mimic its natural environment growing on trees.

Watering: Water thoroughly during the growing season (spring through summer), allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant is in its resting phase. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage.

Temperature and Humidity: Epiphyllum ‘King Midas’ prefers temperatures between 60-80°F (16-27°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors or kept in a protected area when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). It enjoys high humidity, so consider misting the plant or placing it near a humidifier.

Fertilizer: Feed the plant with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every month during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter period.

Pruning and Repotting: Trim any damaged or leggy stems to promote new growth. Repot every 2-3 years, preferably in spring, using fresh soil and a slightly larger container.

Pests and Diseases: Orchid Cacti are generally pest-resistant but can occasionally suffer from mealybugs and spider mites. Check the plant regularly and treat infestations with insecticidal soap. Additionally, root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered, so ensure proper watering and drainage to avoid this issue.