Epiphyllum hookeri

Scientific Name: Epiphyllum hookeri (Link & Otto) Haworth
Synonym: Cereus hookeri, Cereus latifrons, Epiphyllum latifrons, Epiphyllum phyllanthus var. hookeri , Epiphyllum ruestii, Epiphyllum strictum, Phyllocactus hookeri, Phyllocactus strictus
Family: Cactaceae

Recommended Temperature Zone:
USDA: 10-12

Frost Tolerance: Does not take any frost. In Phoenix, can be kept outside in a very protected area that doesn't freeze

Sun Exposure: Light shade

Origin: Mexico to Venezuela, Caribbean

Growth Habits: Epiphytic vine, up to 6 feet long or more

Watering Needs: Regular water and fertilizer in summer

Propagation: Cuttings, seeds

As Phyllocactus strictus, picture from K. Schumann "Gesamtbeschreibung der Kakteen"

The species epithet Hookeri is named after the botanist Sir William Hooker who had first recorded it. The species name phyllanthus comes from the Greek "flowered leaf" referring to the fact that the flower originates from the middle of a leaf shaped stem.

Fruiting Habits:
The Epiphyllum hookeri has large white flowers with yellow anthers. They are followed by a red, smooth, ovoid fruit.

Culture:
This Epiphyllum grows on trees in the wild. It should be kept in a light, well drained mixture, rich in organic matters.