How to Grow King Midas Epiphyllum
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King Midas Epiphyllum
Epiphyllum × 'King Midas'
flowerKing Midas is a hybrid epiphyllum (orchid cactus) prized for its large, stunning golden-yellow flowers with a waxy texture. This tropical cactus is an epiphytic species that naturally grows on trees in rainforests, making it quite different from desert cacti. It produces dramatic nocturnal or early-morning blooms and is a popular houseplant among collectors.
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Example King Midas Epiphyllum timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant King Midas Epiphyllum
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First King Midas Epiphyllum blooms
Mid-to-late summerBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact King Midas Epiphyllum dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Zones 10b-11; best grown indoors or in frost-free conditions
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Get my King Midas Epiphyllum timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
4-8 weeksNewly planted cutting or young plant with initial root development and baseline growth
Keep soil lightly moist but not wet; provide bright indirect light; maintain warmth (65-75°F); avoid fertilizer for 4-6 weeks
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant develops flattened, segmented stems (cladodes) that can reach 1-2 feet long; no flower buds yet
Increase watering and fertilize monthly with diluted balanced fertilizer; provide bright indirect light; support stems if needed; maintain humidity 50-70%
Bud Formation
4-8 weeksSmall flower buds appear at stem tips, typically in late winter or early spring; buds are initially green and round
Maintain consistent moisture and temperature (60-75°F); do not move the plant; avoid overwatering buds; reduce fertilizer frequency; provide bright light
Flowering
1-3 days per flower; multiple blooms over 2-4 weeksLarge, golden-yellow flowers bloom, typically 4-7 inches wide, with satiny petals and prominent golden stamens; flowers often open at night or dawn
Do not disturb or move plant; maintain moisture levels; enjoy blooms which last 1-3 days; support heavy flower weight with stakes if needed
Post-Flowering & Rest
4-8 weeksFlowers drop; plant enters dormant or slow-growth period; stems may show new growth or remain relatively quiet
Reduce watering and fertilizer; maintain cooler temperatures (55-65°F) for 4-8 weeks to encourage next year's blooms; provide bright indirect light
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; isolate plant; dab with 70% isopropyl alcohol on cotton swab
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Remove manually with brush; spray neem oil; treat with horticultural oil monthly
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Increase humidity; spray leaves with water; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days
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Improve drainage; repot in fresh soil; reduce watering frequency; allow soil to dry between waterings
Uses
Indoor Ornamental Plant
HouseholdKing Midas is primarily grown as an exotic houseplant for its spectacular golden-yellow flowers that provide dramatic seasonal interest. Perfect for living rooms, bathrooms with humidity, and as a focal point in plant collections. [source]
Floral Arrangements & Cut Flowers
CraftThe striking golden blooms are occasionally cut for fresh or dried floral arrangements and bouquets. Their large size and vivid color make them prized by florists for special occasion arrangements. [source]
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeEpiphyllum flowers attract nocturnal pollinators, particularly moths and bats in their native range. Growing them indoors allows observation of night-blooming plant adaptations. [source]
Edible Fruit
CulinaryWhen flowers are pollinated, Epiphyllum develops fleshy, edible fruits containing small black seeds. The fruit is sweet and can be eaten fresh, though fruit production is rare in indoor plants without hand-pollination. [source]
Traditional Folk Medicine
MedicinalSome cultures use Epiphyllum stems and flowers in traditional herbal remedies for digestive or circulatory issues. Scientific evidence is limited, and use should be discussed with healthcare providers. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Epiphyllum flowers are ornamental and not harvested for food; enjoy blooms on the plant where they naturally develop. Flowers last 1-3 days and should not be cut unless for floral arrangements, in which case cut early morning when fully opened. Seeds develop in fleshy fruit 4-6 weeks after flowering if flowers are pollinated.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 King Midas flowers typically bloom at night or in the very early morning and close by mid-morning, making them a true night-blooming cereus relative; this adaptation in nature allows them to be pollinated by night-active creatures like moths and bats.
- 🌱 Unlike typical cacti, epiphyllums are rainforest plants that naturally grow on tree branches, not in deserts; they require more moisture, humidity, and organic soil than their desert-dwelling relatives.
- 🌱 The plant was named 'King Midas' for its rich, golden-yellow flowers that reference the legendary Greek king who turned everything he touched to gold; it is a popular collector's variety among orchid cactus enthusiasts.
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