4" Epiphyllum Queen Of The Night (Orchid Cactus)

Epiphyllum oxypetalum, commonly known as Queen of the Night or Orchid Cactus, is a stunning epiphytic cactus appreciated for its large, fragrant flowers that bloom nocturnally. Here are care instructions specifically tailored for Epiphyllum oxypetalum:

1. Light: Epiphyllum oxypetalum prefers bright, indirect light. Place it near a window with filtered sunlight or in a location where it receives bright, indirect light for several hours a day. Protect it from direct sunlight, especially intense afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves.

2. Temperature: Keep your Queen of the Night in moderate room temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) during the growing season. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures in winter but should be protected from drafts and temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

3. Watering: Water Epiphyllum oxypetalum regularly during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the top inch (2.5 cm) of soil to dry out between waterings. Water thoroughly when you do water, ensuring excess water drains away. Reduce watering in fall and winter, watering only enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.

4. Humidity: Queen of the Night prefers moderate humidity levels. It can tolerate average indoor humidity but benefits from occasional misting or placing the pot on a humidity tray filled with water and pebbles to increase humidity around the plant.

5. Soil: Plant Epiphyllum oxypetalum in a well-draining cactus or orchid potting mix. A mixture of potting soil, perlite, and orchid bark works well to provide good drainage. Use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from pooling around the roots.

6. Fertilizing: Feed your Queen of the Night with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 4-6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows down.

7. Potting: Repot Epiphyllum oxypetalum every 2-3 years in spring if it outgrows its pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh potting mix. Handle the plant with care due to its flattened stems and spines.

8. Pruning: Remove any dead, damaged, or old stems to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's shape. Use clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears and wear gloves to protect your hands from the plant's spines.

9. Flowering: Queen of the Night produces large, fragrant flowers that bloom at night. Provide the plant with cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours in late summer to early fall to encourage blooming. Each flower typically lasts one night and may bloom sequentially over several nights.

10. Pests: Monitor your Epiphyllum oxypetalum for pests such as spider mites or mealybugs, especially in the leaf axils and along the stems. Treat any pest infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

By following these care instructions, you can enjoy growing and caring for your Epiphyllum oxypetalum, the Queen of the Night, prized for its spectacular nocturnal blooms and unique epiphytic growth habit.

** Images are used for general reference. Only the size in shape of each each plant will vary. **