Nightblooming Cereus

(Epiphyllum hookeri)

Nightblooming Cereus (Epiphyllum hookeri)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Epiphyllum hookeri, commonly known as Nightblooming Cereus or Nightblooming Cactus, is an evergreen succulent native to tropical rainforests of Central America , South America, and Trinidad-Tobago, where it thrives in the understory and on trees as an epiphyte. It typically grows to a height and width of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters), with long, leafless, and flat green stems that function as leaves. The plant is renowned for its nocturnal, fragrant flowers that bloom in the summer, opening at night and closing by morning. These flowers can be quite showy, with a combination of pink, red, and white hues, and can reach up to 8 inches (20 cm) in diameter.

Nightblooming Cactus is valued for its unique flowering habit and is often grown in hanging baskets or as a potted specimen on patios and in conservatories. It prefers partial shade to mimic its natural rainforest habitat, requiring protection from intense afternoon sun. While it can tolerate low water conditions, it benefits from regular watering and high humidity, especially during the growing season. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. It is not typically used for culinary or medicinal purposes but is admired for its striking nocturnal blooms. In cultivation, it is relatively low maintenance but can be susceptible to mealybugs and scale insects.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 2-3 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, Red, White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

native to tropical rainforests of Central America , South America, and Trinidad-Tobago, where it thrives in the understory and on trees as an epiphyte

Other Names

Common Names: Hooker’s Orchid Cactus, Nopalillo De Hooker

Scientific Names: , Epiphyllum hookeri, Epiphyllum phyllanthus var. hookeri, Cereus hookeri, Epiphyllum ruestii, Epiphyllum strictum var. ruestii, Phyllocactus hookeri, Phyllocactus marginatus, Phyllocactus ruestii, Phyllocactus stenopetalus,

GBIF Accepted Name: Epiphyllum hookeri (Link & Otto) Haw.