Product Overview
Lepismium Cruciforme – Hurricane Cactus
A really great, spine-free cacti native to the tropical, and sub-tropical rainforests of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina.
It`s another unusual epiphytic cacti. This means that its roots aren`t necessarily anchored to the ground, but will grow in harmony attached to another plant, normally in the nooks of tree branches.
The thick, fleshy trailing stems, which branch as they mature, look fantastic in a hang pot.
Jungle cacti require different care to desert Cacti, preferring dappled, indirect light, and more water. They are used to an environment that receives large volumes of rain, although the substrate that they tend to grow in is mainly decomposing organic matter that doesn`t stay saturated for long.
Small flowers may form in Summer in shades of cream, pink, white, yellow, and occasionally deep purple.
An uncommon plant that will give a real tropical jungle feel to your home without being demanding.
As with most tropical jungle plants Lepismium thrive in bright, indirect light, this mimics sun light through the jungle canopy. Don`t allow any more than an hour or two of early morning, or late afternoon sun. They easily adapt to a semi-shady spot but growth will be slower, and a little more care is needed not to overwater as the rate at which the soil dries is slower
From Spring until late Summer water thoroughly, then make sure that the top third of the compost is dry before watering again. If kept in shade it may take a little longer to dry, so don`t be hasty, it`s best to be a little cautious to avoid overwatering. If possible use rainwater, or tap water that has been allowed to stand for 24 hours.
Room temperatures between 18-25c are fine.
Fertilise through Spring and Summer , just once a month, with a half strength diluted liquid feed.
Average humidity is fine most of the time but during the colder months in heated rooms increase the humidity around your plant. Group together with other plants, stand on a tray of moist gravel, or an occasional misting will help.
Minimum Temp: 12c
Lepismium can be placed outdoors during warmer months when night time temperatures exceed 12c. Keep in dappled shade, to avoid sun scorch, and remember to bring back indoors before temperatures start to drop.
Remove any old yellow leaves with a pair of sharp, sterile scissors to encourage good plant health and growth.
Re-pot in Spring once the roots have filled the current pot, approx. every 2 years. Only use a slightly larger pot and good quality free draining cacti compost, mixed with orchid bark and pumice.
Warnings: Not known to be toxic.
