Queen Of The Night Cactus Plant Care

Epiphyllum oxypetalum (DC.) Haw.

Epiphyllum oxypetalum, the Dutchman's pipe cactus, princess of the night or queen of the night, is a species of cactus with a native range from Mexico to Nicaragua. It blooms nocturnally, and its flowers wilt before dawn.

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Water

Every 10–14 days

Light

Bright indirect light

Temp

60–80°F

Humidity

40–60%

What Is the Queen Of The Night Cactus?

Queen Of The Night Cactus (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) belongs to the Cactaceae family within the Epiphyllum genus. Queen Of The Night Cactus is also known as Queen of the Night, Night-blooming Cereus, Orchid Cactus.

Queen Of The Night Cactus displays an epiphytic, sprawling cactus growth habit, reaching up to 2 inches tall with a spread of approximately 3 inches. Queen Of The Night Cactus produces large, showy blooms in various colors like red, pink, orange, and white.

Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.

How Often Should You Water a Queen Of The Night Cactus?

Epiphyllum oxypetalum requires watering every 10–14 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Watering Frequency

Every 10–14 days

Let soil partially dry between waterings

What Light Does the Queen Of The Night Cactus Need?

Queen Of The Night Cactus thrives in bright indirect light light conditions. The optimal light range is 100–500 lux. Avoid placing Queen Of The Night Cactus in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.

Light Requirement

Bright indirect light

100–500 lux

What Temperature and Humidity Does the Queen Of The Night Cactus Prefer?

Epiphyllum oxypetalum grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Queen Of The Night Cactus prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Temperature

60–80°F

Humidity

40–60%

What Soil Mix Works Best for a Queen Of The Night Cactus?

Well-draining cactus mix with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Queen Of The Night Cactus to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

How Do You Repot a Queen Of The Night Cactus?

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

How Do You Propagate a Queen Of The Night Cactus?

Queen Of The Night Cactus can be propagated through stem cuttings, grafting.

Fertilizing

Every 6 months

During the growing season

Is the Queen Of The Night Cactus Toxic to Pets and Children?

Non-Toxic

Non-toxic to humans and pets

What Pests and Diseases Affect the Queen Of The Night Cactus?

Queen Of The Night Cactus is susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, mealybugs. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Queen Of The Night Cactus Need?

Queen Of The Night Cactus grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 12b. In cooler regions, grow Queen Of The Night Cactus as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.

Hardiness Zone

Zone 10a – 12b

Keep exploring plants

Queen Of The Night Cactus is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.

It belongs to the Epiphyllum genus — compare its care with other Epiphyllum species on PlantoScan.

Queen Of The Night Cactus thrives in bright light and direct sun — see other bright-light plants.

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