The Epiphyllum genus is a group of epiphytic cacti, often called Orchid Cacti, which naturally grow on trees in Central and South American rainforests. Unlike their desert-dwelling relatives, they are adapted to humid, shaded environments, which influences their care requirements. The cultivar ‘Curly Locks’, scientifically known as Epiphyllum guatemalense ‘Monstrosa’, is a highly sought-after houseplant because of its distinct, spiraling growth habit that makes it a spectacular specimen for hanging baskets.
Identifying the Unique “Curly Locks” Traits
The defining characteristic of the ‘Curly Locks’ Orchid Cactus is its unusual stem structure, which results from a natural mutation of Epiphyllum guatemalense. Like all members of the genus, its foliage consists of flattened, thickened stems, known as cladodes, which perform photosynthesis. In most Epiphyllum varieties, these cladodes are relatively straight and elongated.
In the ‘Curly Locks’ cultivar, the cladodes exhibit a dramatic, crested, and contorted growth pattern. These broad, bright green stems twist, spiral, and curl tightly, creating a tangled, undulating mass. This “monstrose” growth gives the plant the common names ‘Curly Locks’ or ‘Curly Sue’.
Essential Environmental Requirements
The ‘Curly Locks’ cactus thrives when its natural tropical forest environment is closely replicated, meaning it requires bright, but not harsh, light. Placing the plant where it receives filtered or indirect sunlight, such as near an east-facing window or a few feet from a south or west-facing window, is optimal. Direct midday sun can scorch the stems, causing them to yellow or develop sun stress marks.
As a jungle epiphyte, this cactus needs warmer temperatures and higher humidity than a desert cactus. Ideal temperatures range from 60°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C) during the growing season. The plant must be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), and particularly from any frost, as it is not cold-hardy. While it tolerates normal household humidity, providing a slightly more humid environment, especially in dry winter months, will prevent stem tip browning.
Routine Care and Maintenance
Watering
Proper watering for the ‘Curly Locks’ cactus involves balancing its need for moisture with its susceptibility to root rot. Unlike desert cacti, it does not tolerate being left completely dry for extended periods, but soggy conditions will quickly cause problems. Allow the top one-third of the growing medium to dry out completely between waterings during the active growth period of spring and summer. During the cooler winter months, the watering frequency should be significantly reduced, perhaps to once a month.
Soil Requirements
The specialized epiphytic nature of the plant means it requires an airy, fast-draining substrate that mimics the decayed leaf litter and organic matter found in tree crotches. A suitable mix should contain materials that provide excellent drainage and aeration, such as orchid bark, perlite, pumice, and a small amount of potting soil or peat. Standard potting soil is too dense and retains too much water, which can lead to the deterioration of the roots.
Fertilization and Repotting
Fertilization is important for encouraging the nocturnal white flowers the plant is known for. During the spring and summer growing season, a balanced, diluted fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, can be applied weekly. To promote blooming, which typically occurs in spring, the plant benefits from a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen and higher potassium content (e.g., 2-10-10), applied in late winter or early spring. The plant prefers to be slightly root-bound, so repotting should only be done every few years or when roots begin to emerge from the drainage holes.
Propagating New Plants
Propagating ‘Curly Locks’ is easily accomplished using stem cuttings. A section of a healthy stem, approximately six to nine inches long, should be cleanly cut from the parent plant using a sterile knife or shears. It is also beneficial to take the cutting at one of the serrated edges, or areoles, where roots naturally form.
After taking the cutting, allow the cut end to dry and form a protective callus. This drying process typically takes between three to seven days, depending on the ambient humidity, and helps prevent the cutting from rotting when planted. Once the cut surface has completely dried and sealed over, the cutting can be inserted about one to two inches deep into a pot filled with the recommended well-draining epiphytic soil mix. The newly planted cutting should be kept in bright, indirect light and watered lightly until roots develop, which usually takes about two weeks.