Orthophytum

Orthophytum's are in the Bromeliad family with more than 25 species, cultivars and hybrids in cultivation. The wild species are limited to eastern Brazil where they seem to grow on rocks and sides of cliffs. Actually being terrestrial the roots grow into the cracks and fissures between rocks which generally contain moisture and nutrients. Unlike their epiphytic relatives, Noregelia, Vriesia, Guzmania, etc., Orthophytum do not have 'cups' or hold water in the center leaves of the plants.

The name Orthophytum means 'erect plant' which refers to the upright flower spike of most species. The thick stalk can grow quite tall and produces tiny flowers at the top amongst foliage that looks like miniature plants. Though most species have upright stalks an exception is O. navioides with inflorescences nestled down in the foliage. Orthophytum come in many shapes and sizes, most as erect rosettes but some are semi-climbing varieties like O. vagans.

Many Orthophytum are confused with Dyckia or Hechtia due to the long leaves having sharp 'teeth' along the margins yet others no 'teeth', fuzzy foliage covered in scurf (a whitish powdery substance) or are bright and shiny. Some have apple green leaves while others are red, spotted, multi-colored, and even streaked, striped or variegated. All Orthophytum's are suitable for hanging baskets, container gardening, mixed plantings with other succulents or even rock gardens in warm climates. They can be grown as house plants in a sunny window, on patio gardens or under trees and in tall pots that show off the draping foliage. Plant your Orthophytum in fertile but well-drained soil. A suitable mix is 1/2 potting soil, 1/4 hardwood bark mulch (or Orchid mix) and 1/4 Perlite, small stones, crushed lava rock, etc. Water often in spring and summer and in winter keep barely damp but never let it dry out completely like you would a Cactus plant. Give plenty of bright light to bring out the best foliage coloration and most can take full sun once adapted.