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Glossy foliage of Epiphyllum oxypetalum or Night Bloomig Cereus |
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Epiphyllum oxypetalum
(Dutchman's Pipe Cactus, Queen of the Night, Night Blooming
Cereus, Orchid Cactus) |
Family: Cactaceae
Origin: Central and south America
Light: Sun-part shade/light shade
Height: 8'-10'
Spread: 1.5-3'
Blooms: Fragrant, white, mid-spring
Foliage: Evergree, long, flat, glossy, notched margins, arching stems.
New leaves grow out from the notches
Soil: Well-drained, sandy, gravelly
soil,
keep moist
Water:
Daily, do not let dry completely
Fertilizer: Well-balance fertilizer, diluted to 1/2 strength monthly
Propagation: Divisions, leaf or stem cuttings
Uses: Container, indoors, hanging basket
Comments: Epiphyllum oxypetalum or Dutchman's Pipe Cactus or Queen of the
Night or Night Blooming Cereus or Orchid Cactus is an epiphyte.
Impressive large white flowers appear on the nodes at end of leaves only at around midnight and
slowly fades
at dawn. The lovely blooms of Epiphyllum oxypetalum last only for a night. It is a rare treat to be
able to watch Queen of the Night flowers gradually open their petals, emitting a sweet strong scent! Epiphyllum oxypetalum
is a low-maintenance and carefree plant that is very easy to grow. Orchid Cactus plant
can be grown indoors. If grown in a greenhouse, use 2 parts peat moss:1
part coarse sand:a part small pine bark for good drainage. Protect Night
Blooming Cereus from frost if grown outdoors. Allow space for good air
circulation. In winter, reduce watering and do not fertilize. I
repot my Epiphyllum oxypetalum every 2 years.
USDA Hardiness Zones : 8b-11 |
