The Night Blooming Cereus, specifically Epiphyllum oxypetalum, is a unique cactus known for its ephemeral nocturnal blossoms. Often called the Queen of the Night, its spectacular flowers unveil only after dusk, remaining open for a brief window before morning. This short-lived, intensely fragrant bloom is a remarkable botanical event.
The Bud’s Emergence
The first signs of a bloom appear as small, often reddish or greenish nubs along the scalloped edges of the plant’s flattened stems. These tiny nubs, initially only a few millimeters in size, can be easily overlooked. Over several weeks, they gradually enlarge into recognizable, pointed bud shapes.
As the bud matures, it elongates and swells, taking on a cylindrical or teardrop form. Its color remains green, though some varieties may show hints of reddish-brown. This preparatory phase can last for days or weeks, with the bud slowly increasing in size to several inches long. Buds usually form in spring, with blooms occurring throughout warmer months.
Pre-Bloom Swelling
In the hours before blooming, the bud undergoes a rapid transformation. It swells noticeably, becoming plumper and often changing orientation. This rapid swelling is a key indicator that the bloom is imminent. A few days prior, the flower stem may bend, positioning the blossom parallel to the ground.
On the day of the bloom, the bud’s outer bracts become plump and wavy, and distinct petals become visible beneath the surface. This rapid expansion signals the bloom is only hours away. The bud can reach several inches in length and width, indicating its readiness to unfurl.
The Grand Unveiling
As dusk settles, typically between 8 and 10 PM, the Night Blooming Cereus flower begins to unfurl. The tightly wound outer petals, often yellowish or pinkish at their tips, slowly start to open. This dynamic process can be observed in real-time.
The sepals and petals gradually peel back, revealing the flower’s inner structure. This unfolding continues for several hours, usually reaching a significant stage by midnight.
Peak Bloom
At its peak, around midnight, the Epiphyllum oxypetalum flower is a striking sight. The large, funnel-shaped blossoms span 7 to 12 inches across, displaying pristine white or creamy-white petals. These blooms release a powerful, sweet, and distinctive fragrance, often described as rich, floral, and pleasant, with hints of vanilla.
This state is fleeting, lasting only a few hours. The flower’s large size and bright white color attract nocturnal pollinators like bats and large moths.
The Morning After
As dawn approaches, the Night Blooming Cereus’s beauty rapidly fades. With the first rays of sunlight, the delicate petals begin to wilt and droop. The vibrant white color dulls, and the flower takes on a shriveled appearance.
By mid-morning, the flower is completely spent, having completed its brief performance. This swift decline marks the end of its single night.
Post-Bloom Observations
After the bloom has wilted, the spent flower typically detaches from the plant. Gardeners can also gently remove the shriveled remains. The plant’s energy then shifts to other growth processes.
If successful pollination occurred, the flower may form an oblong, purplish-red fruit. These edible fruits, up to 5 inches long, taste similar to passionfruit.