Aporophyllum 'Karen' - Orchid Cactus - Vibrant Blooms and Easy Care

Aporophyllum 'Karen' - Orchid Cactus

Aporophyllum 'Karen' is a showstopping orchid cactus that will bring a burst of colour to your home. This easy-growing cultivar is another delightful hybrid of Disocactus ackermannii, boasting magnificent, large flowers in a vibrant coral-red hue. With its graceful, arching stems and dazzling blooms, Aporophyllum 'Karen' is a joy to cultivate.

Distinctive Features

• Dazzling Flowers: The undeniable highlight of this orchid cactus is its large, flamboyant flowers, reaching up to 15cm (6in) in diameter. The petals are a fiery coral-red, creating a spectacular display when in full bloom. These stunning flowers typically appear in late spring or early summer.
• Arching Stems: The flattened, leaf-like stems of Aporophyllum 'Karen' are a vibrant green and can grow up to 60cm (24in) long. Their graceful, arching habit makes this cactus perfect for hanging baskets or displaying on shelves, allowing the blooms to cascade beautifully.
• Epiphytic Nature: As with many orchid cacti, Aporophyllum 'Karen' is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows on trees in its native habitat. This means it prefers a well-draining potting mix and benefits from good air circulation.

Care Tips

• Light: Bright, indirect light is crucial for Aporophyllum 'Karen'. While it can tolerate some morning or evening sunlight, it's best to avoid intense afternoon sun, which can cause sunburn.
• Water: Allow the potting mix to dry out slightly between waterings. During the growing season (spring and summer), water moderately, and reduce watering in autumn and winter when the plant is dormant.
• Humidity: This cactus appreciates slightly higher humidity than desert cacti. Misting occasionally or placing the pot on a tray of pebbles and water can help increase humidity.
• Temperature: Aporophyllum 'Karen' thrives in warm temperatures between 18-24°C (64-75°F) during the growing season. In winter, it can tolerate cooler temperatures down to 10°C (50°F).
• Fertiliser: Feed with a balanced liquid fertiliser diluted to half strength once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
• Potting: Use a well-draining epiphytic cactus potting mix. Repot every 2-3 years in spring to provide fresh nutrients and accommodate its growth.
• Propagation: This cactus can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take cuttings in spring or summer, allow them to callus over for a few days, and then plant them in a well-draining potting mix.

Additional Notes

• Aporophyllum 'Karen' is a relatively fast-growing cactus and can quickly fill its container, making it a rewarding plant to watch develop.
• This cactus is not toxic to pets, but it's best to keep it out of reach of curious paws and mouths.
• With its vibrant flowers and straightforward care, Aporophyllum 'Karen' is a fantastic addition to any plant collection, bringing a touch of the tropics to your home.