Fernleaf Cactus Plant
Fernleaf Cactus (Ephiphyllum chrysocardium) is a cactus growing 1-3 feet tall, hardy in USDA zones 9-11, with slow growth in well-drained, sandy soil, requiring full sun and low moisture, and it is neither edible nor medicinal.
Habit
Cactus
Height
1-2 m
Growth
Slow
Soil
Well-drained, sandy loam
Shade
Full sun
Moisture
Low
Edible
No
Medicinal
No
Origin
Mexico
Climatic Condition
Temperature (°)
Tropical
Humidity (%)
60-80%
Potting media
Cactus mix
Fertilizers
Organic compost
Watering
Water sparingly; prefers dry conditions
Plant Weight
1-2 kg
Flowering Time
Fall to Winter
Soil Ph level
6.0 - 7.0
Water Ph level
6.0 - 7.0
Soil EC
0.3 - 0.5
Yield Per Plant
Ornamental use
NPK ratio
10:10:10
life Span
Perennial
Health Benefits
Used for ornamental purposes; unique flowers.
Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?
40% cactus mix, 30% perlite, 30% sand
Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers
Fertilize every 4 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Diseases and Remedies
Root Rot, Leaf Spot, Mealybugs, Spider Mites, Aphids.
Yellowing, wilting leaves White cottony masses on leaves Tiny webs, speckled leaves Curling, yellowing leaves Brown/black spots on leaves
Improve drainage, reduce watering Wipe with alcohol, neem oil Increase humidity, neem oil Insecticidal soap, neem oil Prune affected leaves, neem oil spray
Fungicides containing metalaxyl, Systemic insecticides like imidacloprid, Miticides containing abamectin, Imidacloprid-based insecticides, Copper-based fungicides
HEALTH BENEFITS
Stress relief
- Caring for the fern leaf cactus can help lower stress levels.
- Cactus plants can create a calming and relaxing environment.
Air quality
- The fern leaf cactus removes toxins like benzene and formaldehyde from the air.
- Cacti help purify indoor air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
Immunity
- Studies have shown that spending time in nature and surrounding oneself with plants can strengthen the immune system.
- Succulents and cacti, with their natural beauty and resilience, can contribute to this immune-boosting effect.