Queen of the Night

Queen of the Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum)

The Queen of the Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) is a captivating epiphytic cactus known for its dramatic, fragrant, night-blooming flowers. This tropical plant's large, fragrant blooms and sprawling growth habit make it a standout choice for plant collectors and indoor enthusiasts.

Distinctive Features

Queen of the Night is famous for its large, creamy-white, star-shaped flowers that bloom only at night, filling the air with a sweet fragrance. Its sprawling, flat, green stems have a slightly leathery texture and are often adorned with aerial roots. The flowers are short-lived, but their beauty and fragrance make them a remarkable event.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Prefers bright, indirect light; tolerates partial shade but grows best with consistent, bright conditions.
• Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil; a mix designed for epiphytes, such as orchid or cactus soil, is ideal.
• Water: Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
• Humidity: Thrives in moderate to high humidity; mist regularly or use a humidity tray in drier environments.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-12 (suitable as an indoor plant in cooler climates).

Ideal Uses

• Indoor Decor: Adds a tropical and dramatic touch to living rooms, offices, or bedrooms.
• Hanging Displays: Perfect for displaying its cascading stems in hanging planters.
• Collector's Plant: A must-have for plant enthusiasts drawn to its rare and spectacular blooms.

Low Maintenance Care

The Queen of the Night is a resilient and easy-to-care-for plant, thriving with minimal attention. Its occasional blooms and sprawling stems make it a rewarding addition to any plant collection.

• Watering: Water thoroughly but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce watering during winter.
• Pruning: Trim overgrown or damaged stems to maintain a neat appearance and encourage healthy growth.
• Fertilizing: Feed with a diluted cactus or orchid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Propagation: Easily propagated from stem cuttings, ensuring continuous growth and new plants.

Why Choose Queen of the Night?

Queen of the Night is celebrated for its rare and fragrant blooms, adaptability, and dramatic appearance, making it an exceptional choice for plant collectors and indoor gardeners.

• Stunning Blooms: Large, fragrant, night-blooming flowers create a memorable display.
• Unique Growth: Sprawling, flat stems add an architectural element to plant arrangements.
• Low Maintenance: Thrives with minimal care, perfect for busy gardeners or beginners.
• Versatile Placement: Suitable for indoor decor, hanging baskets, or tabletop displays.

For those seeking a rare and visually stunning plant, Queen of the Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) is an exceptional choice.