Epiphyllum Curly Locks Orchid

Plant name: Epiphyllum Curly Locks Orchid Cactus

Scientific name: Epiphyllum guatemalense f. monstrosa

Plant description:
Epiphyllum Curly Locks, often called Curly Orchid Cactus, is an epiphytic cactus grown for its uniquely twisted, cascading stems. Unlike desert cacti, this tropical species naturally grows attached to trees in humid forests, drawing moisture and nutrients from organic debris. Its curling, ribbon-like stems create a sculptural, trailing form that makes it especially suited to hanging baskets and elevated containers.

Flower description:
Mature plants may produce large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers that open dramatically and fade by morning. Blooms are typically white to pale cream with elongated petals and a layered, starburst form. Flowering generally occurs on established plants grown under stable conditions with adequate light.

Leaf description:
This plant does not produce traditional leaves. Instead, it develops flattened, segmented stems that twist and curl along their length. The stems are medium green, slightly fleshy, and deeply lobed with irregular, contorted margins that give the plant its signature “curly” appearance.

Deciduous or evergreen:
Evergreen in suitable climates and when grown indoors.

USDA grow zones:
USDA Zones 10–11 outdoors; widely grown as a houseplant or greenhouse specimen in cooler regions.

Mature height and width:
Trailing stems can reach 2–4 feet long, with plants typically spreading 2–3 feet wide depending on container size and care.

Landscape uses:
Best suited for hanging baskets, elevated containers, indoor plant displays, and shaded patio settings. Its cascading habit adds movement and texture to vertical plant arrangements and complements tropical foliage plants.

Native range:
Native to Central America, particularly Guatemala, where it grows as an epiphyte in forested environments.

Sun exposure:
Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct, intense sun can scorch stems, while insufficient light may reduce flowering. Filtered light similar to forest canopy conditions supports strong growth.

Water requirements:
Requires well-drained, organic-rich soil and moderate watering. Allow the top portion of the growing medium to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid prolonged dryness or consistently saturated soil. Humid conditions support optimal growth.

Pests and problems:
May be susceptible to mealybugs, scale, and spider mites, especially in dry indoor environments. Root rot can occur if planted in dense, poorly draining soil. Good airflow and proper drainage help prevent common issues.

Heat and sun tolerance: Cold tolerance:
Performs well in warm, humid conditions. Sensitive to prolonged direct sun exposure and freezing temperatures. Temperatures below 40°F can cause damage to stems.

Growing tips:
Plant in a loose, well-draining mix formulated for epiphytic cacti or orchids to promote healthy root development. Maintain moderate humidity and consistent, indirect light to encourage steady growth and potential flowering. Allow stems to trail freely to highlight their natural curl pattern. Light feeding during active growth supports strong, vibrant stems without excessive softness.

---SHIPPING NOTICE PLEASE READ BEFORE PURCHASING LIVE PLANTS!---

 We WILL NOT refund the purchase of or the shipping cost of live plants purchased with the intent to be shipped to states that do not authorize importing live plants or to states with restrictions! Purchases to these states will be held for 30 days for pick-up at our Slidell, Louisiana store and the shipping cost associated with these purchases will be held for the care of the plant while waiting to be picked up. All sales are final. If the plant(s) purchased are not picked up within 30 days from the date of order, these items will be returned to our sales inventory and you WILL NOT be refunded. Thank you for understanding these policies.

Due to regulations, certain states have restrictions on importing plants. Please review the list below to ensure you're not attempting to order any restricted plants in your area.

**Important Note:** We do not ship any plants outside the U.S.

State-Specific Restrictions - We ARE NOT responsible for any plant(s) that are not listed in these restrictions. Purchaser bears all responsibility for making sure the plant(s) they desire to purchase are not banned from being imported to the shipping state:

Arizona: Juglans spp.  

California: Castanea spp., Juglans spp., Pinus spp., Quercus spp.  

Colorado: Some counties restrict Prunus spp. Please verify your local county regulations.  

Florida: Castanea spp., Cornus spp., Quercus spp., Cornus mas 

Georgia: Vaccinium spp.

Hawaii: Pinus spp. 

Idaho: Humulus lupulus, Mentha spp., Vitis spp.

Indiana: Fragraria spp., Rosa spp. 

Kansas: Juglans spp.

Michigan: Abies spp., Vaccinium spp.

Montana: Pinus spp.

Nevada: Allium spp.

, Mentha spp. 

New Jersey: Rosa spp.  

New York: Vitis spp.  

Oregon: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Quercus spp., Sambucus nigra, Ulmus spp., Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.

Texas: Juglans spp. 

Washington: Allium spp., Castanea spp., Corylus spp., Humulus lupulus, Vaccinium spp., Vitis spp.  

Wisconsin: Abies spp., Pinus spp., Picea spp., Mentha spp. 

Additionally, we cannot ship plants in soil medium to the following states: AK, AL, AR, AZ, CA, HI, ID, KS, MS, MT, ND, NM, NV, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, WA.