Night-blooming Cereus

Plant Type: Cacti
Plant Height: 10 feet
Spread: 2-5 feet
Flower Color: white or cream
Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Partial Shade

Night-Blooming Cereus – A Mysterious, Nocturnal Cactus for Arizona Gardens

The term Night-Blooming Cereus refers to several species of cacti known for their large, fragrant flowers that bloom at night. These species belong to genera such as Epiphyllum, Hylocereus, and Selenicereus, and are native to regions ranging from the Southwest United States to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America.

Key Features of Night-Blooming Cereus:

• Nocturnal Blooms: The Night-Blooming Cereus is famous for its stunning, fragrant flowers that open after dusk and last for just a single night. The blooms are typically white or cream-colored, large, and highly fragrant, attracting nocturnal pollinators such as moths and bats.
• Diverse Growth Habits: Depending on the species, Night-Blooming Cereus can grow as sprawling vines, climbing plants, or more upright, columnar forms. The foliage also varies, ranging from flat, leaf-like structures to ribbed and spiny stems.

Ideal for Arizona Gardens and Indoor Plant Collections

The Night-Blooming Cereus thrives in warm climates like Arizona’s and can be grown as a garden plant or in containers as a houseplant in cooler regions. Its spectacular nocturnal blooms and intriguing growth habits make it a must-have for plant enthusiasts seeking something unique.

• Adaptable to Various Light Conditions: These cacti are adaptable, growing well in full sun to partial shade, depending on the species.
• Well-Draining Soil: Like most cacti, the Night-Blooming Cereus prefers well-draining soil. Water the plant moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.

Why Choose Night-Blooming Cereus for Your Arizona Garden?

• Stunning Floral Displays: The Night-Blooming Cereus offers an enchanting experience, with its large, fragrant blooms that appear in abundance for a single night. These nocturnal flowers make a dramatic statement and attract attention with their sudden and ephemeral beauty.
• Low-Maintenance Care: Perfect for Arizona gardens, these cacti are drought-tolerant once established and thrive in well-drained soil with minimal watering.
• Conversation Piece: The Night-Blooming Cereus adds an element of mystery and intrigue to any garden or indoor space. Its rare, night-blooming habit makes it a fascinating addition to plant collections.

Growth and Care

The Night-Blooming Cereus is relatively easy to care for. Ensure the plant is grown in well-draining cactus soil and watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. These cacti thrive in a variety of light conditions, with some species preferring full sun and others tolerating partial shade.

Planting & Care Tips

• Light Requirements: Place the Night-Blooming Cereus in full sun to partial shade, depending on the species. In Arizona’s sunny climate, the plant will thrive with the proper care.
• Watering: Water moderately, ensuring the soil dries out completely between waterings to avoid overwatering.
• Soil: Use a well-draining cactus soil mix to prevent water from sitting in the soil and causing root rot.

The Night-Blooming Cereus is a unique and low-maintenance cactus that brings a mysterious, nocturnal beauty to Arizona gardens and indoor spaces. Its dramatic blooms, drought tolerance, and easy care make it an ideal choice for gardeners looking to add a special touch to their landscape.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Night-blooming Cereus

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun to partial shade (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and blooming)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-4 feet apart to allow for their sprawling growth
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Night-blooming Cereus grows as a sprawling cactus, requiring no staking

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 5-6 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Night-blooming Cereus is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 12-18 inches away from the base of the cactus for deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks