Epiphyllum oxypetalum (Queen of the Night)

Fast-growing, long-lived, and sweetly-scented, Epiphyllum oxypetalum (Queen of the Night) is an erect, then sprawling, epiphytic, or lithophytic, spineless cactus. Freely branching, it produces long, flattened green stems that can reach up to 20 ft. long (6 m). They climb by use of aerial roots that adhere to the surface upon which they grow or climb. Large and beautiful white flowers, up to 12 in. long (30 cm) and 8 in. wide (20 cm), appear in late spring to early summer. Very fragrant, they open only at night and usually last just one night. When pollinated, they give way to oblong, purplish red fruits, 5 in. long (12 cm). Easy to grow, and relatively trouble-free, Queen of the Night is mostly grown as an indoor plant in cool areas. However, it can be grown outdoors in hardiness zones 10-11 and is suitable for growing up walls or trellises. The powerful scent and great beauty of the huge flowers often lead gardeners to invite neighbors over to watch the blossoms open!

• Grows up to 10 ft. high (300 cm) and 3 ft. wide (90 cm).
• Full sun to light shade lover, this plant is not fussy about soil conditions as long they are well-drained and supplemented with high amounts of organic material. Water regularly during the growing season, making sure the soil does not dry out. Fertilize on a monthly basis with a balanced fertilizer during this period.
• Tolerates temperatures that do not exceed 113°F (45°C), and short periods of frost, but prolonged cold will damage or kill the plant. Prefers night temperatures no cooler than 53°F (12°C).
• Remarkably disease free.
• Overlong stems can be cut off or shortened. New shoots will usually develop just behind the cut.
• Propagate by stem cuttings or (rarely) by seed in the spring.
• Native to Mexico, Guatemala and can be found in most parts of Central America and Northern South America.