The ‘Curly Locks Orchid Cactus’ (Epiphyllum guatemalense ‘Curly Locks’) is a distinctive houseplant. Its unusual, spiraling foliage makes it stand out. As an epiphyte, it grows on other plants or structures, not in the ground. Its cascading growth habit makes it an excellent choice for hanging baskets.
Understanding Your Curly Locks Orchid Cactus
The plant features flattened, leaf-like stems that twist and curl. This unique appearance is a natural mutation from Epiphyllum guatemalense. Bright green stems trail extensively.
As an epiphyte, the ‘Curly Locks Orchid Cactus’ originates from tropical forests. It attaches to trees, absorbing moisture and nutrients from the air. This influences its care, distinguishing it from desert cacti.
Essential Care for Thriving Growth
Light
The ‘Curly Locks Orchid Cactus’ thrives in bright, indirect light. A south or west-facing window is ideal. Direct, harsh sunlight can burn the stems. Yellowing or reddish discoloration indicates too much light, while insufficient light leads to leggy growth.
Watering
This epiphytic cactus prefers consistent moisture but is sensitive to overwatering. Allow the top half to one-third of the soil to dry completely between waterings. The pot should feel lighter when rewatering. Reduce watering frequency during cooler autumn and winter months as growth slows. Adequate drainage prevents waterlogged conditions and root rot.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining, airy potting mix is essential. An ideal mix includes orchid bark, perlite, and peat moss or coco coir. This mix provides aeration, drainage, and moisture retention. Repotting is needed every few years; the plant flowers better when slightly pot-bound. Select a pot with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Temperature and Humidity
It prefers temperatures from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 26°C). While it tolerates normal household humidity, higher levels are appreciated. To increase humidity, place the pot on a pebble tray filled with water, without the pot sitting in water. A room humidifier nearby can also provide moisture.
Fertilization
During the growing season, fertilize regularly to support growth and flowering. Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks. In late winter, switch to a fertilizer with lower nitrogen and higher phosphorus to encourage bud development. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent nutrient burn or excessive foliage growth.
Encouraging Beautiful Blooms
The ‘Curly Locks Orchid Cactus’ produces white or light pink, funnel-shaped flowers, typically at night. To encourage blooming, the plant requires a dormancy period. Expose to cooler temperatures (50-59°F / 10-15°C) for several weeks in late fall/early winter. During this time, reduce watering and fertilization.
After this cooler, drier period, gradually return the plant to normal care as spring approaches. The flowers emerge from the flattened stems and are short-lived. Small, pink fruits can develop. Consistent care, particularly the dormancy period, increases flowering.
Propagating New Plants
Propagate using stem cuttings. Select a healthy 4-6 inch stem section. Allow the cut end to dry and form a callus for a few days to a week; this prevents rot when planted. Once callused, insert the cutting about an inch deep into a well-draining potting mix.
Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy, and place the cutting in bright, indirect light. Roots form within weeks; new growth indicates establishment.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Yellowing stems indicate over or underwatering. Browning tips suggest low humidity or nutrient deficiency.
A lack of growth or failure to flower points to improper light or an insufficient dormancy period. Adequate bright, indirect light and a cool, dry rest period resolve these issues. Pests like mealybugs or spider mites can affect the plant; manage with a damp cloth or gentle insecticidal soap.