Epiphyllum oxypetalum
queen of the night
An erect, branching, epiphytic cactus to 2m, with cylindrical stems and flat, spineless, leaf-like branches to 40cm long. In late spring and early summer it produces huge, very fragrant, waterlily-like flowers to 25cm across; these open at dusk and close again in the morning
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | White | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | White | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1BBotanical details
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Trailing
- Genus
Epiphyllum are a genus of around 20 species of epiphytic cacti. Their rounded stems produce succulent leaf-like branches with funnel-shaped nocturnal flowers.
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Guatemala & Mexico
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in epiphytic cactus compost in bright filtered or indirect light with moderate humidity. In growth, water freely and apply a high potash fertiliser 3 or 4 times; keep just moist for 6 weeks after flowering to allow a rest period. See epiphyllum cultivation for further information
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown at 21°C in spring; take stem cuttings in early summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Sub-tropical
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.