Scientific Name — Epiphyllum oxypetalum

Common Name(s) — Night Blooming Cereus, Dutchman's Pipe Cactus, or Queen/Princess of the Night

Plant Family — Cactaceae

Background

Epiphyllum oxypetalum is native to Mexico and Guatemala, but it is widely cultivated around the world. Regal and cascading, this tree-dwelling epiphyte is a favorite among plant lovers for its huge, elegant, night-blooming flowers.

These blossoms often begin in late spring and then produce several crops throughout the growing season. Though the plant is a prolific producer, the blossoms don’t last long. Watch them emerge and fully bloom by midnight, then wilt by dawn.

Growth Requirements

Sun

Epiphyllum oxypetalum loves a lot of direct sunlight. Provide southern exposure as much as possible. However, when it’s hot, these plants prefer partial shade at peak hours. The diffused light of a screen door or sheer curtain will imitate the dappled sunlight of a forest canopy. 

A little extra sunlight in early spring may inspire extra budding come summer.

Temperature/ Humidity 

Epiphyllum oxypetalum is a tropical plant, meaning it thrives in temperatures between 65 to 80ºF.  It should always be kept above 55ºF.  

Though these plants like humidity, they can tolerate and thrive in a normal home environment (most of our homes are low in humidity, especially in the winter). That being said, the plant can benefit from misting with tepid water or a humidifier.

Water

Native to the rainforest, the night bloomer plant likes a little more water than other members of the cactus family. During the summer growing season, water regularly to promote healthy growth and blooms. Epiphyllum oxypetalum’s succulent leaves retain plenty of moisture, so it will be fine if not watered for a bit.

In the winter, when these plants are not actively growing, ease up on watering. Reduce the frequency of watering to about half of what you would provide in the summer. In the winter, let the soil dry between waterings.

Soil/Roots

Give Epiphyllum oxypetalum a light, well-draining tropical soil. A typical potting soil amended with 50% coco coir or sphagnum moss will work. Many of this plant’s roots actually pull moisture from the air, so it’s important that the soil is as light as possible.

Flowering

Dramatic flowers up to 8 inches in length may bloom in late spring into fall over several crops. They have a sweet scent, and only bloom for one night each.

Fertilization

Fertilize during spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer up until flowers stop blooming in the fall. 

Apply monthly. Do not fertilize in late fall or winter. 

Propagation

Epiphyllum oxypetalum can be easily propagated by stem or leaf cuttings.

Health

Diseases and Pests

Fungal leaf rot may occur during spring rains, creating brown spotting and scarring on the stems. Remove infected limbs with clippers.

Scale, mealybugs, and aphids are not common but may occur. Remove pests with a cotton ball or Q-tip soaked in rubbing alcohol, or treat the plant with diluted neem oil. Prune away unhealthy leaves or stems.

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

This plant grows and blooms best when somewhat rootbound. Repot every two or three years, moving it to a pot just 2 inches wider.  

Toxicity 

These plants are not toxic if ingested by animals and humans. 

This plant is well known for many uses in traditional medicine.

• It’s been used to treat heavy or painful menstrual periods.

• The flowers mixed into soup are said to clear phlegm and strengthen the lungs.

• Plant juices have been used for bladder infections, shortness of breath, and water retention.

•  Applied externally, it has been used for rheumatism. It is also assumed to be an aphrodisiac.

The flowers are edible. Pluck wilted buds in the morning, then rehydrate before use in vegetable soups. They will have a gelatinous effect on the broth, and they have a slightly sour flavor. Flowers are often found for sale in Chinese grocery stores.

FAQs

Why isn’t my Epiphyllum oxypetalum producing flowers?

Insufficient light is one of the most common reasons for poor blooming. Give the plant as much bright sunlight as possible, especially in the early spring — just be careful of too much direct summer sun. Don’t overpot, either. A slightly rootbound plant is more likely to bloom.

When should I take leaf cuttings to start another Epiphyllum oxypetalum?

Take cuttings during the active growing season, ideally after blooming. Spring to early summer is. Cuttings prefer warm-weather propagation in order to become well-established.

Can I water all of my cacti at the same time?

Probably not. Although Epiphyllum oxypetalum is related to other cacti you might own, it naturally grows in tropical forests rather than arid regions. It prefers more consistent watering than other cacti. Just allow the soil to drain well and dry slightly between waterings to avoid root rot.