How to care for Queen of The Night

The Queen of the Night, also known as Epiphyllum oxypetalum, is truly a marvel of nature. This cactus flower is a favorite among plant enthusiasts for its beauty and undeniable charm.

With large and fragrant blooms that only appear at night, this plant brings a unique spectacle to your garden or indoor space.

But how do you care for this nocturnal queen? This definitive guide will answer that and provide you with the essentials you need.

Varieties of The Queen of the Night

There are several varieties of the Epiphyllum cactus. Some popular varieties include the ‘Dutchman’s Pipe,’ ‘Curly Locks,’ and ‘Red Coat.’

These differ in their leaf shape and flower color, giving you options to match your aesthetic preference.

What do the The Queen of the Night look like at different stages of the growing cycle?

At the start, Queen of the Night sprouts are small with little to no branches. As they age, they grow into a bushy plant with many long, flat, and green stems. The much-anticipated flower buds appear after a few years, maturing into large, white flowers that bloom for just one night.

How to pot or plant The Queen of the Night

Choose a shallow, wide pot with excellent drainage. Plant your Queen of the Night with the roots covered in the soil, but avoid burying the stems.
What type of soil is needed?

A well-draining soil is key for this cactus. A mix of equal parts sand, potting soil, and orchid bark or perlite works well.

How much sunlight does The Queen of the Night need?

Although it’s a cactus, the Queen of the Night prefers indirect sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can scorch and damage the leaves, so place it where it will get filtered light.

How to water does The Queen of the Night need?

Water your plant once the top inch of soil is dry. During summer, this can be once a week, while in winter, it might just be once a month. Make sure to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

How to fertilize The Queen of the Night

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every month during the growing season. Reduce fertilizing to once during the winter months. Always follow package instructions to avoid over-fertilizing.

How can I tackle common pests and diseases with The Queen of the Night?

Queen of the Night can attract pests like mealybugs and scale. You can combat this with insecticidal soap or neem oil. For diseases like root rot, prevention is key: ensure you’re not overwatering and your plant has good drainage.

How do I prune The Queen of the Night?

Prune your plant in early spring to control its size and shape. Cut back stems that are touched by pest infestations or disease.

How to propagate The Queen of the Night

Propagate your Queen of the Night through stem cuttings. Let the cuttings dry out for a few days before planting in a well-draining soil mixture.

Conclusion

Despite its exotic character, the Queen of the Night is surprisingly easy to care for. Its unique bloom will make all your efforts worthwhile, treating you to a truly captivating display.

Where to buy The Queen of the Night

You can find Queen of the Night at local nurseries, garden centers, or online retailers who specialize in rare plants.

Want to buy Queen of The Night seeds online? Check out this review.

If you like The Queen of the Night, you might also appreciate other houseplants such as:

• Orchid Cactus
• Night Blooming Jasmine
• Ghost Plant