Brahma Kamal (Red), Epiphyllum Oxypetalum (in polybag)

Plant height:  8-12 inches

Common name(s):  Queen of the Night, Orchid Cactus, Jungle Cactus, Dutchmans Pipe Cactus

Real Name for this plant is Epiphyllum Oxypetalum. But unfortunately, most of Indians recognise this with name of Brahma Kamal. Actual Brahma Kamal plant is found in Himalaya. Moreover, this epiphyllum plant blooms red flowers in day. However, white epiphyllum variety of this plant blooms flowers in night.

Growth of this plant is very good, except extreme hot weather (Above 37⁰ C). During rest of the year the plant keeps on producing new leaves in tandem. It does not have stem. Its fleshy leaves act as stem, but due to softness of leaves, the plant bends after attaining 1 foot height and look for support to grow erect. It can also be grown in hanging planters as a hanging plant. Its leaves are attached to each other. If you put one leaf in soil during spring season, you can produce a new plant.

Its funnel-shaped, Pink, Red or white flowers (as per variety) are up to 15 cm long.  The plant is liked due to its fragrant flowers and unique leaves. 

Max reachable height: Up to 1.5 metres

Planting and care:

Sunlight: It prefers shady sunlight, It can tolerate full Sun also during winter. During summer,  must keep in shady area. Cool and humid atmosphere enhance its growth.

Soil & Watering : Well-drained soil, Over-watering is to be avoided. To ensure better drainage, please use perlite or Fly Ash made clay balls of smallest size to have better result. We should never add more than 25 % cocopeat in soil of this plant, otherwise chances of root rot will be higher. This plant can survive without water for almost 2 weeks (if kept in shade). Even in hottest weather, do not water it on daily basis. During rest of the year, whenever soil becomes dry, we can water this plant.

Suitable Temperature: 15 to 35⁰ C