Epiphyllum 'Curly Sue' is a captivating epiphytic cactus celebrated for its unique and ornamental flattened stems that exhibit distinctive curls and undulations along their margins. Unlike typical cacti, it thrives in more humid and shaded environments, producing spectacular, often fragrant flowers. This plant offers a fascinating textural element and impressive blooms, making it a prized addition for enthusiasts of unusual and flowering cacti.
 
Key Features of Epiphyllum 'Curly Sue'
Curly, Flattened Stems: The most striking feature is its flattened, leaf-like stems (cladodes) that display varying degrees of curls, twists, and undulations along their edges, giving it a distinctive and ornamental appearance.
Lack of Spines (or Few): Unlike many cacti, Epiphyllums typically have few or no significant spines along their stems.
Aerial Roots: As an epiphyte, it can develop aerial roots along its stems, which it uses for support and absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air.
Large, Showy Flowers: Mature plants can produce spectacular, large, and often fragrant flowers that typically bloom at night or for a short period. The flowers can come in various colors, depending on the specific hybrid, but are often white, cream, pink, or red.
Relatively Fast Growth: Under optimal conditions, it can exhibit relatively vigorous growth.
 
Care for Your Epiphyllum 'Curly Sue'
Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct, intense sunlight can scorch the delicate stems. East or west-facing windows are often ideal.
Soil: Requires a well-draining yet moisture-retentive potting mix. A mix containing orchid bark, peat moss, and perlite is often suitable.
Watering: Water regularly during the active growing season (spring and summer), allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering 1 during the cooler, dormant winter months, but do not let the stems shrivel.  
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and should be protected from frost.
Humidity: Thrives in higher humidity levels than desert cacti. Regular misting or placing the pot on a pebble tray with water can be beneficial.
 
Maintenance for a Flourishing Plant
Support: As the stems grow, they may require support, especially if they become long and pendulous. Trellises or hanging baskets are suitable.
Pruning: Pruning can be done to maintain shape, control size, or encourage branching. It's best done after flowering.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound, ideally in the spring.
Pest Control: Monitor for common pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and scale. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Fertilizing: Feed regularly during the active growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks. Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant period.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Stem Cuttings: The most common and easiest method. Take stem cuttings that are several inches long, allow the cut ends to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in a suitable potting mix. Keep the soil lightly moist until roots establish.
Seed Propagation: Propagation by seeds is possible but can be slow and may not produce plants identical to the parent hybrid.
 
Epiphyllum 'Curly Sue' is a truly unique and rewarding plant to grow, offering fascinatingly curled stems and the potential for stunning, often fragrant blooms. Its preference for bright, indirect light, well-draining yet moisture-retentive soil, and higher humidity distinguishes it from typical desert cacti, making it a captivating addition to any indoor plant collection.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.