Is Epiphyllum a dragon fruit flower? How to propagate it by cuttings?

1. Is it a dragon fruit flower?

Epiphyllum is not a dragon fruit flower, but it looks very similar and is difficult for ordinary people to distinguish. However, they are actually related. Epiphyllum and pitaya are both plants of the cactus family. The leaves of Epiphyllum are flat, very long and wide, and the stems are very slender and have no scales. The flowers that bloom are more layered than those of pitaya. The petals of pitaya are relatively simple, and the flower shape is large, larger than that of night-blooming cereus.

2. How to take cuttings

1. Leaf cuttings: Select leaves that have grown for at least 2 years, and the veins should not be too obvious. The leaves should be larger and the growth points should be closed. Because it is difficult for new shoots to grow after the old leaves are cut, it can promote root growth. Prepare the cutting medium and insert it shallowly or obliquely into the soil.

2. Branch cuttings: The best time to do this is May. If the indoor environment is relatively warm, cuttings can be done all year round. Choose strong branches that have grown for 2 years, and don’t choose branches that are too tender, because such branches will easily rot after cuttings. The length of the cuttings should be about 10-15cm. Cut it from the mother plant and place it in a cool place to dry for a day, then insert it into the soil to a depth of about 1/3. After cuttings, place them in a cool place and do not move them casually. New roots will grow in about 20-30 days.