While most people associate cacti with desert landscapes, orchid cacti actually evolved in tropical rainforests as epiphytes growing on tree branches. You’ll find these exotic plants produce some of the most spectacular blooms in the houseplant world, with flowers spanning up to 8 inches across. From the fiery Red Dragon to the pristine Pure White Epiphyllum, each variety offers unique characteristics that can transform your indoor garden into a tropical paradise.

1. Red Dragon Orchid Cactus

The Red Dragon Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum ‘Red Dragon’) is a striking hybrid epiphyllum known for its large, vibrant red flowers that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. This climbing succulent produces long, flat, dark green stems that serve as both leaves and branches, creating a cascading appearance when mature. The spectacular blooms typically appear in spring and early summer, opening at night and lasting for several days, featuring multiple layers of pointed petals in deep crimson shades with prominent stamens.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate partial shade
  • Water: Regular watering during growing season, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels (50-70%)
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from frost
  • Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
  • Container: Well-draining pot with adequate drainage holes
  • Support: Provide trellis or hanging basket to accommodate trailing growth

2. King of Orchids

The King of Orchids (Grammatophyllum speciosum) is the world’s largest orchid species, capable of growing up to 25 feet wide with flower spikes reaching 10 feet long. This massive epiphytic orchid produces numerous yellow-green flowers with brown spots, each bloom measuring around 4-6 inches across. Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines, it typically grows on large tree branches or rocks in tropical forests. The plant can weigh several thousand pounds when mature and produces multiple flowering stems that create spectacular displays with up to 100 flowers per spike.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; morning sun is beneficial but protect from intense afternoon sun
  • Water: Regular watering during growing season; reduce in winter; allow media to dry slightly between waterings
  • Soil: Well-draining epiphytic orchid mix containing bark, charcoal, and sphagnum moss
  • Humidity: High humidity (60-80%)
  • Temperature: Warm conditions, 65-85°F (18-29°C)
  • Fertilizer: Regular feeding during growing season with balanced orchid fertilizer
  • Mounting: Best grown mounted on hardwood slabs or in large baskets to accommodate massive size

3. Pink Princess Orchid Cactus

The Pink Princess Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum hybrid) is a stunning epiphytic cactus variety known for its large, vibrant pink blooms that can reach up to 6-8 inches in diameter. This trailing succulent features flattened, leaf-like stems and produces spectacular flowers that typically bloom at night, lasting only 24-48 hours. The Pink Princess is particularly valued for its reliable blooming habit and the intense rosa coloring of its petals, which can range from soft pink to deep magenta.

  • Light: Bright, indirect light; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate some morning sun
  • Water: Water thoroughly when top 1-2 inches of soil is dry; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (50-70%)
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season
  • Container: Use hanging baskets or containers with good drainage
  • Pruning: Remove dead or yellowing segments as needed
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4. Yellow Sun Orchid Cactus

The Yellow Sun Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum ‘Golden Sun’) is a striking epiphytic cactus variety known for its large, vibrant yellow blooms that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The flowers typically open at night and last for only 24-48 hours, creating a spectacular but fleeting display. This climbing cactus features long, flat, dark green stems that serve as both leaves and branches, growing in a cascading pattern that makes it ideal for hanging baskets.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; protect from intense afternoon sun; morning sun is beneficial
  • Water: Moderate watering during growing season; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix; ideal blend includes orchid bark, peat moss, and perlite
  • Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity (50-70%)
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F (10°C)
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
  • Container: Use pots with adequate drainage holes; prefer being slightly root-bound

5. Pure White Epiphyllum

The Pure White Epiphyllum is a striking variety of orchid cactus known for its large, pristine white blooms that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. These night-blooming flowers are intensely fragrant and typically open in the evening, lasting only 24-48 hours. The plant features flat, segmented stems that are green and succulent, growing in a trailing or climbing pattern that makes them ideal for hanging baskets or climbing supports.

  • Light: Bright, indirect light; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate partial shade
  • Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels (50-70%)
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from frost
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
  • Container: Use containers with adequate drainage holes
  • Support: Provide climbing support or hanging basket to accommodate trailing growth

6. Giant Lavender Orchid Cactus

The Giant Lavender Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum) is a stunning epiphytic succulent known for its large, fragrant blooms that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. This variety produces spectacular lavender-colored flowers with delicate, ruffled petals that open at night and typically last for only 24 hours. The plant features long, flat, leaflike stems that cascade downward, making it ideal for hanging baskets or elevated containers.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; can tolerate partial shade
  • Water: Water thoroughly when top inch of soil feels dry; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (50-70%)
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
  • Container: Use pots with adequate drainage holes; prefer being slightly root-bound
  • Growing Medium pH: 5.5-6.5

7. Magenta Queen Orchid Cactus

Magenta Queen Orchid Cactus is a stunning epiphytic cactus variety known for its large, vibrant magenta-pink flowers that can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. The blooms feature multiple layers of pointed petals that create a dramatic, star-like appearance when fully open. These flowers typically appear in spring and summer, emerging from the plant’s flat, segmented stems which can grow up to several feet in length. The plant’s stems are green, succulent, and have scalloped edges, creating an attractive display even when not in bloom.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate some morning sun
  • Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter months
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels (50-70%)
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from cold drafts
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
  • Container: Hanging baskets or pots with good drainage
  • Support: May need support for climbing or trailing stems
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8. Midnight Blue Orchid Cactus

The Midnight Blue Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum) is a rare and stunning variety known for its deep purple-blue blooms that appear almost black in certain lighting conditions. These large, nocturnal flowers typically span 6-8 inches in diameter and emit a sweet fragrance when they open at night. The plant features long, flat, dark green stems that cascade elegantly, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or tall containers. While the blooms only last for a single night, the plant produces multiple flowers throughout its blooming season.

  • Light: Bright, indirect light; protect from harsh afternoon sun; can tolerate partial shade
  • Water: Moderate watering during growing season; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with organic matter; ideal mix includes orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (50-70%)
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from frost
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
  • Container: Use pots with adequate drainage holes; prefer being slightly root-bound
  • Growing Medium pH: 5.5-6.5

9. Orange Sunset Orchid Cactus

The Orange Sunset Orchid Cactus is a striking epiphytic variety known for its large, vibrant orange-colored blooms that can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. These exotic flowers typically appear in late spring to early summer, creating a spectacular sunset-like display against the plant’s flat, segmented green stems. The blossoms open in the evening and may last for several days, featuring layers of delicate petals that shift from deep orange in the center to lighter peachy hues toward the outer edges.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate some morning sun
  • Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter months
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix with added perlite or orchid bark
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from frost
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels (50-70%)
  • Fertilizer: Monthly feeding during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
  • Container: Well-draining pot with adequate drainage holes
  • Growing Season: Active growth in spring and summer

10. Rainbow Empress Orchid Cactus

The Rainbow Empress Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum ‘Rainbow Empress’) produces large, vibrant blooms that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. These stunning flowers feature a gradient of colors from white to pink to deep magenta, creating a mesmerizing rainbow effect. The plant itself has flat, leaflike stems that are segmented and can grow quite long, making it perfect for hanging baskets. Like other epiphyllums, it typically blooms at night, with flowers lasting only 1-2 days.

  • Light: Bright, indirect light; protect from intense afternoon sun; some morning sun is beneficial
  • Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix rich in humus
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from frost
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (50-70%)
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
  • Container: Use containers with drainage holes; hanging baskets or pots that allow stems to cascade
  • Pruning: Remove dead or damaged segments; trim to control size

11. Angel Wings Orchid Cactus

Angel Wings Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum anguliger) is a unique epiphytic cactus known for its distinctive deeply-lobed leaves that resemble wings, giving it its common name. Unlike typical desert cacti, this tropical species produces large, fragrant white flowers that bloom at night during late summer to fall. The plant’s stems grow in a zigzag pattern and can reach lengths of up to 3 feet, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets where its dramatic foliage can cascade downward.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate partial shade
  • Water: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic-rich potting mix suitable for epiphytes
  • Temperature: 60-80°F (15-27°C); protect from frost
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (50-70%)
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season
  • Potting: Use containers with drainage holes; prefer to be slightly root-bound
  • Winter Care: Reduce watering and stop fertilizing; maintain temperatures above 50°F (10°C)

12. Golden Frost Orchid Cactus

The Golden Frost Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum ‘Golden Frost’) is a striking variety of epiphyllum known for its large, creamy white flowers with golden yellow centers. These night-blooming flowers can reach up to 8 inches in diameter and emit a sweet fragrance. The plant features long, flat, arching stems that are deep green and can grow up to 3 feet in length, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets or climbing displays.

  • Light: Bright, indirect light; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate morning sun
  • Water: Water thoroughly when top inch of soil feels dry; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, rich potting mix with added organic matter
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (50-70%)
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from frost
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced fertilizer
  • Container: Use containers with adequate drainage holes
  • Pruning: Remove dead or damaged stems; prune after flowering to maintain shape
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13. Ruby Star Orchid Cactus

The Ruby Star Orchid Cactus is a striking epiphytic cactus variety known for its large, vibrant ruby-red flowers that can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. These dramatic blooms feature pointed petals arranged in a star-like pattern, giving the plant its common name. The stems are flat, segmented, and dark green, growing in a cascading manner that makes them ideal for hanging baskets or elevated containers.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate some morning direct sun
  • Water: Allow soil to dry partially between waterings; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix rich in humus; ideal pH 5.5-6.5
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from frost
  • Humidity: Moderate to high, 50-70%
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
  • Container: Well-draining pot with drainage holes
  • Propagation: Easily propagated through stem cuttings

14. Jade Emperor Orchid Cactus

The Jade Emperor Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum guatemalense) is a striking epiphytic cactus known for its large, fragrant white flowers that bloom at night. The flowers can reach up to 8 inches in diameter and feature multiple layers of delicate petals surrounding a yellow center. Its stems are flat, leaf-like segments that cascade downward, making it an excellent choice for hanging baskets. While the blooms only last for a single night, the plant produces multiple flowers throughout its blooming season.

  • Light: Bright, indirect light; protect from intense afternoon sun; some morning sun is beneficial
  • Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter; maintain higher humidity
  • Soil: Well-draining, organic potting mix rich in humus; preferably mixed with orchid bark or perlite
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); can tolerate brief periods outside this range
  • Fertilizer: Feed monthly during growing season with balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
  • Container: Well-draining pot with adequate drainage holes; hanging baskets work well
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity levels, 50-70%

15. Coral Dream Orchid Cactus

The Coral Dream Orchid Cactus is a stunning epiphytic cactus variety known for its large, salmon-pink to coral-colored blooms that can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. This cultivar features flattened, arching stems with scalloped edges and produces its spectacular flowers primarily during spring and summer months. The flowers open in the evening and typically last for about 24 hours, creating a dramatic display with their delicate petals and prominent stamens.

  • Light: Bright, indirect sunlight; protect from intense afternoon sun; can tolerate partial shade
  • Water: Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering in winter
  • Soil: Well-draining potting mix rich in organic matter; mix of regular potting soil, orchid bark, and perlite
  • Temperature: 60-75°F (15-24°C); protect from frost
  • Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (50-70%)
  • Fertilizer: Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season
  • Container: Well-draining pot with drainage holes; hanging baskets work well
  • pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)