Some of the oldest cactus plants are believed to be jungle plants, inhabitants of tropical forests. In the struggle for survival, they became epiphytic and are neighbors of orchids, bromeliads, ferns and moss. Becoming overshadowed by the tree growth, and with excessive moisture, they found it necessary for survival to climb into the trees to seek sunlight and drainage. They depend on pockets of leafmold and humus for sustenance.

First discovered by early navigators in the jungles of Central and South America, cuttings were taken to Europe. The first record of these plants is 1753. The name "Epiphyllum" was given to them, meaning "upon the leaf" in reference to their habit of sending out their flowers from the edges of the "leaf".

Hybridizing of these cacti from the new world can be traced back to England in 1811. Enthusiasm soon spread to France, Germany and Belgium. Before 1900, seeds and cuttings were sent to the United States, contributing to the early knowledge of these fine plants here. Since then, Southern California, with it's favorable climate, has become the Epiphyllum capitol of the world.

The flowers of the Epiphyllum species are all white, or white with a touch of yellow. The Epiphyllum hybrids we have today are the results of hybridizing by many people over a great number of years. By crossing the species with related genera, such as Selenicereus, Hylocereus, Heliocereus, Nopalxochia and possibly others, as well as crosses between species, hybrid with species, white and purple, pink, rose and red. Combinations of colors, tints and shades, make some of our hybrids almost impossible to describe. The various shapes and sizes, the delicate or brilliantly iridescent colors of the hybrids, make them the most beautiful flowers in the entire succulent world. Because of the many variations, and the fact that these container grown plants are easily propagated from cuttings, this plant family is one of the most rewarding you can grow.