The Queen of the Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) is a captivating member of the cactus family native to the tropical and subtropical forests of Central and South America. This species is celebrated for its spectacular, large white flowers that possess an intense, sweet fragrance. The flowers bloom only after sunset, closing and wilting by dawn. Understanding the unique needs of this jungle cactus is essential for successfully growing this plant and witnessing its ephemeral, nocturnal display. This guide details the specific environmental conditions and ongoing care required.
Essential Environmental Needs
This plant, often called an Orchid Cactus, is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows on the surface of other plants or trees, unlike desert cacti. It requires bright, indirect light, mimicking the filtered sun under a forest canopy. Placing the plant in an east or north-facing window indoors, or under partial shade outdoors, protects its flat, leaf-like stems from harsh, direct afternoon sunlight.
The Queen of the Night thrives in warm, moderate conditions, ideally between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not tolerant of frost; temperatures consistently below 50 degrees Fahrenheit can cause damage. This tropical species appreciates higher humidity, which can be maintained indoors using a humidity tray or a room humidifier.
The potting mix must be airy, rich, and extremely well-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot. A suitable blend combines standard potting soil with materials like perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark, often using a cactus and succulent mix as a base. The plant’s roots prefer to be slightly confined, so choose a pot only one size larger than the root ball.
Routine Care and Seasonal Adjustments
Watering must align with the plant’s seasonal growth cycles. During the active growing period of spring and summer, the plant requires consistent moisture. Allow the top one to two inches of the soil to dry out completely between thorough waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of root issues, so checking the soil moisture before watering is necessary.
As the season transitions into fall and winter, the plant enters a semi-dormant phase, requiring a significant reduction in water frequency. During this cooler period, allow the soil to dry out further before administering minimal water. Watering should be done in the morning to allow the stems and potting mix to dry before nightfall, which helps prevent fungal spots.
Fertilization is applied during the spring and summer growing months, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength approximately once a month. To support bloom development in late summer and early fall, switch to a fertilizer low in nitrogen but high in potassium and phosphorus. Avoid high-nitrogen formulas, as they encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning manages the plant’s sprawling, long segmented stems or removes damaged parts, redirecting energy toward healthy growth. Because the stems can grow quite long, mature plants often require support, such as a trellis or a stake. Common pests like mealybugs and scale insects may appear, which can be treated by applying a systemic insecticide or a horticultural oil like neem oil.
Inducing Blooms and Propagation Techniques
To encourage nocturnal blooms, the Queen of the Night requires a cool and dry rest period, usually spanning two months during late fall and winter. Keep the plant in a location where temperatures remain cool, ideally between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and significantly reduce watering. This environmental stress stimulates flower bud formation, though plants generally need to be three to five years old to reach blooming maturity.
Once the cool rest period ends, return the plant to warmer temperatures and resume the spring watering and feeding routine to initiate flower bud growth. If buds appear, feeding with a specialized high-phosphorus, low-nitrogen fertilizer can help maximize flower count and size. The fragrant flowers open rapidly after dusk and close with the morning light.
Propagation is easily achieved through stem cuttings. Select a healthy, flat segment of stem about four to six inches long and use a clean tool to make the cut. Allow the severed end to dry out and form a protective, hard layer called a callus, which typically takes several days to a week. This callousing prevents the cutting from rotting when placed into the rooting medium.
The calloused cutting should be planted an inch or two deep in a pot filled with a well-draining mix, such as standard cactus soil or a mix of perlite and coir. Water the cutting sparingly until roots develop, keeping the soil dry to avoid rot. After the bloom has finished, carefully cut off the spent flower and its stem to redirect energy toward new growth.