The Night Blooming Cereus, often called the “Queen of the Night,” is renowned for its dramatic nocturnal blossoms. These unique flowers emerge only after sunset, unfurling to reveal large, often fragrant blooms that last for a single night. This fleeting event makes the appearance of a bud and its opening a highly anticipated occasion. While unassuming most of the year, its flowering transforms it into a temporary botanical marvel.
Recognizing and Tracking the Bud
Identifying a Night Blooming Cereus bud requires careful observation to distinguish it from new stem growth. Initially, a bud appears as a small, rounded protrusion, typically forming along the scalloped edges of the plant’s flattened, leaf-like stems, particularly on older growth that has been present for at least two active growing seasons. As it develops, the bud gradually elongates, becoming more conical or cylindrical. Unlike new stem growth, which maintains a consistent green color and uniform thickness, developing flower buds show distinct swelling and a more pointed tip.
Over several days or weeks, the bud visibly increases in size, often reaching several inches. A few days prior to blooming, the flower stem typically bends, positioning the blossom parallel to the ground. On the day of the anticipated bloom, the bud swells noticeably, its petals becoming discernible, and outer bracts appear plump and wavy. This rapid enlargement signals the opening is imminent.
The Spectacular Blooming Event
The blooming of the Night Blooming Cereus is a rapid display. Flowers typically begin to open after dark, usually between 8 and 9 PM, fully unfurling around midnight. As the large, white or creamy-white petals expand, they release a rich fragrance that can fill an entire room or garden.
These blooms are substantial, often measuring several inches across, up to 9 inches in diameter. They last only a single night, closing with the first light of dawn. By morning, the flower will have wilted, concluding its brief performance.
Cultivating More Buds
Encouraging a Night Blooming Cereus to produce more buds involves providing optimal growing conditions. Adequate light is a primary factor; bright, indirect light is ideal, as too much direct sun can scorch foliage. An east or west-facing window is often a suitable indoor location. These plants thrive when allowed to dry out between waterings; water deeply only once the soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, inhibiting blooming.
A regular fertilization schedule is beneficial during spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer, or one slightly higher in phosphorus, diluted and applied sparingly, as these plants are not heavy feeders. For mature plants, often aged 3-5 years, a winter chill period, with nighttime temperatures between 35 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit from November to March, and reduced watering, encourages blooms. Night Blooming Cereus often blooms best when slightly root-bound, so frequent repotting into larger containers is not recommended.
After the Bloom Fades
Once the Night Blooming Cereus flower completes its nocturnal display, it wilts and closes with morning light. By sunrise, the petals droop, and the bloom loses vibrancy. The spent flower will naturally dry and eventually drop from the plant.
Removing the faded bloom is a simple process; gently break the flower stem off at its base. This tidies the plant and directs its energy toward new growth rather than maintaining a dying flower. After blooming, continue general plant care, including watering and light, to help the plant recover and store energy for future budding cycles. Maintaining proper conditions prepares the plant for its next round of spectacular, fleeting flowers.