BRIRELYEEW IVs 
The original Epiphyllum is an epiphyte growing wild in semi-tropical countries such as Brazil, 
Venezuela, Argentine, Panama, and Mexico. Some of the true species are Epiphyllum Darrah, 
steno petalum, strictum, crenatum, and Hookeri, the majority of which are night blooming. The 
main stems are cylindrical at the base, branching into flat, deeply crenated, spineless stems. The 
flowers develop along the margins. In the tropics the Epiphyllum and the Orchid may be found 
growing side by side in tree trunks and under trees where they have moisture, rich soil, and good 
drainage. 
The hybrids have been developed by crossing the genus Epiphyllum with other genera of cacti, 
such as Hylocereus, Selenicereus, and Heliocereus. The color range has been acquired from the 
dominant parent Hel/ocereus, and the resulting hybrids from these two genera are sometimes called 
Phyllocactus. Among these crosses may be found some that are slightly spiny such as Peacocki. The 
Eccremocactus, as well as Napalxochia phyllanthoides and Chiapasia, may also have been used in 
the crosses. 
The original Epiphyllum does not have the magnificent coloring found in the new hybrids, many 
of which are hybrids within the genus Ep/phyllum where they have been greatly hybridized between 
themselves for many generations. However, we choose to list all hybrids and true species under one 
general head “Epiphyllum” even though Europeans still use the term ‘‘Phyllocactus.”’ 
It is only in late years that the American garden enthusiast has become interested in hybridizing 
the Epzphyllum and in raising seedlings. Many varieties have been developed that rival the Orchid 
in brilliancy, iridescence, and combination of colors. The flowers are from 1 to 11 inches in dia- 
meter. 
The plants range in size from small varieties for pot culture to those which may be grown in 
baskets or trained on a trellis and bear a profusion of flowers according to the variety. 
The exotic flowers lend themselves well for flower arrangements and corsages, since they com- 
pare favorably with other cut flowers. The lasting qualities depend upon the atmospheric condi- 
tions. 
Where the climate 1s mild, the Epiphyllum graces the garden the year round. They do well on 
porches or under trees where they have a sunny exposure part of the day. Although they are hardy, 
you will be well rewarded for any extra care you give them. In the East, Middle West, and North- 
ern California the Epiphyllum will require extra protection. Light and air are very important and 
the plants should be kept well above the freezing point. We have found they will stand as low 
a temperature as 28°, but they should be kept well above this. 
NOMENCLATURE 
There is no real authority in America for reference as to the title and descriptions of the Epiphyllums. We 
have imported plants for the purpose of checking, and in getting plants correctly named. When plants are received 
direct from the originator, we are more reasonably assured of receiving plants correctly named. It is the purpose 
of the Epiphyllum Society of America to standardize the names in America, making changes when necessary. 
This catalog has been carefully planned and the descriptions were written conscientiously with color descrip- 
tions from blooms under average growing conditions. It should be remembered that culture and location, as 
well as temperature, have much influence in modifying the colors, especially is this true in plants raised in a 
glass house where a great variation of color may be noted. A bloom rarely reaches its maximum size and qual- 
ity until the second year even under ideal conditions. 
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