Common Name: Curly locks
Botanical Name: Epiphyllum monstrosa
The nighttime is the right time for the Epiphyllum monstrosa, also known as “Curly locks”. When Curly locks bloom, it is always a special treat for all night owls! And, even when this succulent is not in bloom, its foliage put on an after show like no other houseplants. Get your Curly Locks plant today so you can enjoy the show!
Light
For Curly locks plants, at least 6 hours per day of bright indirect light is necessary. In nature, this plant thrives most in desert environments where there is an abundance of light, so providing similar amounts of light is a must for it. Established, mature plants of this kind can often handle direct light, but if your plant is younger, it may become scorched if exposed to direct light. It's often best to err on the side of caution and avoid direct light.
Water
Let the soil completely dry out before watering a Curly locks plant. This easy-care houseplant prefers more arid conditions, making it a good fit for forgetful plant owners. When it is time to water, saturate the soil until water drains all the way through the soil. Make sure to empty the cache pot and tray, so your plant is not sitting in standing water.
Soil
The potting soil for your Curly locks plant should contain more drainage materials (compared to soils for most indoor plants), such as wood chips, perlite, coarse sand, or pumice – which will let the water drain quickly. Most bagged soil-less potting soil made for indoor plants will work fine but remember that you must let the soil dry out completely before watering it again.
Temperature
Your Curly locks plant will do best in temperatures that are between 60°F (15°C) and 80°F (27°C). Avoid your plant in overly cold temperatures as this plant is sensitive to frost! Frost can damage this plant, or even kill it, so be extra careful with the temperatures that it endures.
Humidity
This plant loves to be in high humidity. Ideally, you should aim for humidity levels between 50% and 70%. This range replicates where the plant originally came from. To increase the humidity, you can mist it, group plants together, provide a humidity tray or pebble tray, or use a humidifier.
Fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to your Curly locks plant every two to four weeks during the growing season, which is usually spring and summer. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an equal ration of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. We suggest 10-10-10 or 14-14-14. These ratios help the plants overall health. Always adjust your fertilization routine when it is the fall and winter months. You won’t need to fertilize your plant as often.
Growth Rate
The mature height that your Curly locks plant can reach is 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm). This includes both the stem and foliage. However, it all is dependent on the various factors such as providing your plant with the proper care, how often you are watering your plant, and the light being given to your plant.
Pet Friend or Foe
Curly locks plant is considered to be non-toxic to pets! Friend!
Pro Tips
- Pruning your Curly locks plant can help it to become bushier. You can prune your plant by cutting back the stems.
- Avoid over fertilizing your plant.
- Ensure that your plant is receiving good air circulation as this helps prevent fungal diseases to your plant.