Queen of the Night

Queen of the Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum)

Queen of the Night is a tropical epiphytic cactus famous for enormous, fragrant night-blooming white flowers that open for a single evening. Arching, flattened stems form a dramatic, vining habit that shines on trellises, shelves, and bright indoor spaces.

Distinctive Features

Massive nocturnal blooms with rich perfume and luminous white petals create a memorable midsummer display. Thick, leaf-like cladodes lend sculptural texture and train easily for vertical interest.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Bright indirect light to dappled sun; protect from hot afternoon sun.
• Soil: Airy, well drained epiphyte or cactus mix amended with bark and perlite.
• Water: Water thoroughly, then allow the top third of mix to dry; reduce in winter.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10 to 12 outdoors; grow indoors elsewhere.
• Mature Size: 4 to 8 ft tall and 2 to 4 ft wide with support.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Spectacular one-night blossoms create an unforgettable event.
• Trellised Displays: Trains well on stakes or frames for vertical accents.
• Indoor Specimen: Thrives in bright rooms with filtered light.
• Patio Containers: Summer outdoors in shade, winter indoors in bright light.
• Evening Gardens: Fragrance and luminous blooms enhance night spaces.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Soak and drain thoroughly; avoid letting roots sit in water.
• Pruning: Trim after flowering to manage size and encourage branching.
• Fertilizing: Feed monthly in spring and summer with a balanced, dilute fertilizer.
• Mulching: Top-dress containers lightly with fine bark to stabilize stems and moderate moisture.
• Notes: Provide a stake or trellis for support and avoid cold drafts below 55 F.

Why Choose Queen of the Night?

• Iconic Night Blooms: Giant flowers and fragrance create a true garden moment.
• Space Efficient: Vertical training delivers big impact in limited footprints.
• Low Water Needs: Moderate watering suits busy schedules.
• Indoor Friendly: Adapts well to bright, indirect household light.
• Sculptural Form: Architectural stems provide year-round interest.

Provide bright, indirect light, an airy mix, and a sturdy support, and move containers indoors before cool nights to ensure reliable flowering.