Epiphyllum

Its name comes from Greek and literally means "on top of the leaf", to indicate the origin of flowers, which bloom directly on the "false foliage". Although it does not have spines, it is a cactaceous plant and it is considered an epiphytic plant, meaning that it grows, clinging to other plants, using them only as a support: in fact, it is able to take the nutrients it needs from the humidity of the air, by means of proper aerial roots. Some species grow anchored to the ground, but their roots are too small to satisfy their needs for humidity, therefore they use the aerial ones as well. This genus has waxy stems, long and flat (which give it the nickname of "mother-in-law's tongue") with marginal notches: apparently, they look like real leaves, but in reality they are the branches, from which the night flowers bloom - another value of this spectacular plant. The inflorescences are in fact very big and showy (they can reach up to 20 cm in diameter!), of a boundless scenic beauty: these wonderful blooms, together with the long branches without thorns and the climbing habit, make this cactus highly appreciated and used quite often to decorate any indoor environment!