The plant known as the Reina de la Noche, or Queen of the Night, is botanically identified as Epiphyllum oxypetalum, a species of epiphytic cactus. It is celebrated globally for its stunning, large, and powerfully fragrant flowers. These blooms exhibit a unique nocturnal schedule, opening completely after sunset and collapsing by dawn. The plant features long, flat, leaf-like stems, or cladodes, which give it a lush, tropical appearance, distinguishing it from desert cacti.
Essential Environmental Needs
As a tropical forest cactus, the Queen of the Night requires bright, indirect light, mimicking its native habitat beneath a tree canopy. Direct, intense midday sun should be avoided, as the flat, fleshy stems are highly susceptible to sunburn, appearing as white or scorched brown patches. The plant thrives in warm conditions, with ideal temperatures ranging between 50°F and 80°F (10°C to 27°C) for most of the year. Protection from cold is essential, as this species is not frost-tolerant, and temperatures below 40°F (4°C) can cause significant damage. The potting medium must be extremely well-draining and airy to prevent root rot, which is its most common ailment. A specialized cactus or succulent mix blended with components like orchid bark, perlite, or pumice creates the necessary porous texture for optimal root aeration and rapid water runoff.
Routine Care and Seasonal Adjustments
During the spring and summer growing season, the plant requires deep watering, but only once the soil has dried out several inches down, or nearly completely. Thoroughly soaking the medium allows the roots to absorb moisture, but excess water must drain away immediately, as standing water will quickly lead to root decay. Fertilization should be applied monthly throughout the active growing period from spring to early autumn. This species benefits most from a fertilizer formula that is low in nitrogen and higher in phosphorus and potassium to support flower development rather than just vegetative growth.
As temperatures drop in the late fall and winter, the plant enters a period of semi-dormancy, requiring a significant reduction in both watering and feeding. Cooler, drier conditions are necessary during winter to stimulate the formation of flower buds for the following season.
The long, flat stems have a naturally sprawling or arching growth habit, often necessitating support as the plant matures. Pruning should be performed strategically, ideally immediately after blooming, to remove any damaged or overly long stems. Training the stems onto a trellis or providing a support structure helps manage the plant’s size and prevents the brittle pads from breaking under their own weight. Removing older stems can also encourage new, more vigorous growth that is more likely to produce flowers.
Propagation and Troubleshooting
Expanding a collection of the Queen of the Night is easily accomplished through stem cuttings. A healthy stem section, ideally 4 to 6 inches long, is cut from the parent plant using a clean, sharp tool. The cutting must then be left in a cool, dry place for several days, allowing the cut end to form a protective scab, known as callousing. This step seals the wound, reducing the risk of fungal infection and rot when planted. Once the callous has formed, the cutting is inserted about an inch deep into a small pot filled with a well-draining cactus mix. Initial watering should be withheld for about two weeks to encourage root production.
The most frequent issue is root rot, which manifests as soft, mushy stems and is a result of overwatering or inadequate soil drainage. Addressing root rot requires immediate action, such as repotting into fresh, dry media after trimming away any dark, damaged roots.
Common pests include scale insects and mealybugs, which tend to congregate in the protected crevices along the stem margins. Scale appears as small, brown, raised bumps, while mealybugs resemble tiny, cottony masses. These pests can be treated by gently wiping them away with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Consistent inspection prevents small infestations from becoming a problem.