Creeping Cereus, also known as Night Blooming Cereus or Queen of the Night, is a captivating plant known for its unique growth habit and spectacular nocturnal blooms. This cactus adds appeal to both indoor collections and outdoor gardens in suitable climates. Its appeal lies in the dramatic transformation from an unassuming form to a showstopping floral display.
Unique Characteristics
Creeping Cereus has distinct physical attributes, setting it apart from other cacti. Its ribbed, segmented stems display a creeping or climbing nature. These stems can trail from hanging baskets or be trained to ascend structures like trellises, offering versatile display options. The plant’s long, vine-like shoots contribute to its visual appeal. Its most notable characteristic is its nocturnal flowering, where large, fragrant flowers unfurl after dusk.
Creeping Cereus Care
Proper care ensures Creeping Cereus thrives and produces its signature blooms.
Light
Creeping Cereus prefers bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. A location with morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal, as intense afternoon sun can scorch its stems, causing them to turn reddish or yellow. Indoors, a spot near a window with filtered light is beneficial.
Watering
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot. During the growing season (spring through summer), water thoroughly, ensuring excess water drains away. In cooler, dormant winter months, reduce watering significantly, providing just enough moisture to prevent stems from shriveling.
Soil and Potting
A well-draining soil mix is essential for Creeping Cereus to prevent waterlogging. A sandy cactus mix or gritty succulent soil is suitable. Incorporating materials like perlite, pumice, or coarse orchid bark enhances drainage and aeration. Repotting is generally needed only when the plant becomes root-bound, as they often flower best in slightly constrained conditions. When repotting, use a container with drainage holes and move up only one pot size to avoid excessive moisture retention.
Temperature and Humidity
Creeping Cereus thrives in warm conditions, tolerating temperatures above 100°F (38°C) with some shade. For optimal growth and flowering, a winter chill period with nighttime temperatures between 35-60°F (1.7-15.5°C) is beneficial. While tolerant of lower humidity, protect them from freezing temperatures, ideally staying above 35°F (1.7°C).
Fertilizing
During the active growing season (spring through summer), fertilize Creeping Cereus with a diluted, balanced or specialized cactus fertilizer. Fertilize every two to four weeks at half strength to encourage robust growth and flower production. Reduce or cease fertilization entirely during the fall and winter dormancy.
Propagating Creeping Cereus
Propagating Creeping Cereus is straightforward using stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem section, ideally 6 to 9 inches long, from a mature plant. After cutting, allow the severed end to “callus over” in a warm, dry location for one to two weeks; this prevents rot when planted.
Once callused, insert the end about halfway into a well-draining potting mix formulated for cacti. Water the cutting lightly, then maintain a watering schedule similar to a mature cactus, allowing the soil to dry between applications. Roots typically form within a few weeks, with new growth noticeable within a couple of months.
Flowering and Fruiting
Creeping Cereus flowers during warmer months, typically from July to October. Its large, showy blooms, up to 7 inches across, are white or pale and emit a strong fragrance. These nocturnal blooms open after nightfall, usually between 8 and 9 p.m., reaching full bloom around midnight. By dawn, the flowers wilt and close, lasting only a single night. If successfully pollinated, these ephemeral flowers can be followed by small, spherical, often edible red fruits.
Common Problems and Solutions
Creeping Cereus can encounter issues, often related to environmental conditions or pests. Root rot is a frequent problem, primarily caused by overwatering. Symptoms include mushy stems or a general decline in plant health. To address this, ensure the plant is in a well-draining soil mix and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Insufficient light can lead to leggy growth and a lack of flowering. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect light to resolve this. Pests like mealybugs and scale insects can also infest Creeping Cereus. Control them by wiping with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or using insecticidal soap (test a small area first). Maintaining good air circulation and regular inspection helps prevent pest infestations.