The Epiphyllum oxypetalum, commonly known as the Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus or Queen of the Night, is a captivating plant cherished for its dramatic, ephemeral flowers. Unlike desert cacti, this species is an epiphyte, meaning it naturally grows on trees in tropical and subtropical forests, using the host only for support. The appeal lies in its large, intensely fragrant, white blooms that open only after sunset and wilt before dawn, making the fleeting spectacle a celebrated event.
Starting and Potting the Cactus
Establishing a new Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus is most easily accomplished through stem cuttings. A segment of the flattened, leaf-like stem (phylloclade) should be cut and allowed to dry in a cool, dark place for several days until a protective callous forms. Once healed, the cutting can be inserted a few inches deep into a small pot filled with a specialized substrate.
The potting medium must be airy and drain exceptionally well to mimic the plant’s natural growing conditions. Standard cactus or succulent soil is often too dense for this epiphyte and can lead to root rot. A suitable mix combines materials such as orchid bark, perlite, and a small amount of peat-free potting soil. The plant prefers to be slightly root-bound, so choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the root ball or cutting, ensuring the container has excellent drainage holes.
Essential Environmental Conditions
The Epiphyllum oxypetalum requires bright, indirect light, which mimics the filtered light it receives beneath a tropical tree canopy. Harsh, direct afternoon sun should be avoided, as it can easily scorch the fleshy stems. An east or north-facing window typically offers the ideal illumination without the intensity of midday sun.
This tropical cactus thrives in temperatures ideally ranging between 60°F and 80°F during its active growth period. It is not frost-tolerant, and temperatures dropping below 50°F can cause damage. While tolerant of normal household humidity, the plant naturally prefers moderate to high humidity. Increasing moisture with a humidity tray or a nearby humidifier can be beneficial, especially in dry indoor environments.
Routine Watering and Feeding
During the active growing season of spring and summer, the Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus requires more moisture than a typical desert cactus. Use the “soak and dry” method: water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, but only once the top inch or two of the soil has dried out. This prevents root rot while providing consistent moisture.
The watering schedule must be drastically reduced as the plant enters dormancy in late fall and winter. During these cooler months, growth slows significantly, and excess moisture can quickly become detrimental. Let the soil dry out much more completely between waterings during this time to encourage a necessary rest period.
Fertilization is required throughout the growing season to support vigorous growth and large blooms. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer should be applied monthly, diluted to half-strength. Use a low-nitrogen formula higher in phosphorus and potassium (e.g., 2-10-10 ratio) to support flower production. Fertilizer application should be halted completely during the winter dormancy period.
Specific Steps for Flowering
The most anticipated event is the spectacular nocturnal bloom, but the plant must reach maturity, typically between three and five years old, before flowering. The primary step is providing a distinct winter rest period, which simulates the seasonal changes of its native habitat.
This involves moving the plant to a cooler location, ideally with nighttime temperatures consistently between 50°F and 60°F, while simultaneously reducing watering and ceasing fertilization entirely. This cool, dry rest period, lasting several weeks through late fall and early winter, is necessary for the plant to set flower buds.
Once the plant is moved back to warmer conditions and regular spring watering resumes, the focus shifts to supporting bud development. Fertilizing with a product specifically high in phosphorus, such as a “bloom booster” formula, can encourage the onset of flowering. As the large buds begin to form, they should be protected from physical damage and extreme temperature fluctuations, which can cause them to drop prematurely. Monitoring the buds in the late evening is the final step, as the large, white flowers open rapidly after sunset and wilt by dawn.