The cerus flower is one of the elegant flowers in the world. This flower is born at night and it is ceruse from that it belongs to a specific group of species .Having short lifespan and exquisite odor, cereus flowers are often referred to as Queen of Flowers, Night Bloomer and Night Blooming Cereus.
This guide will equip you with the necessary information about cereus cactus flowers , their species, expert night care tips, details about cereus flowering habits and much more. Regardless if you want to grow one in your garden or just understand how to take care ft of an extraordinary one, this post is for you.
Cereus flower belong to cereus genus and they are classified as cereus part of a bigger family called Cactaceae. These flowers are special since they only bloom at particular times of night and only once every year.
The fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers blossom after sundown and last until dawn. This phenomenon is so rare that some gardeners throw parties in anticipation of “bloom night.”
Quick Facts:
The term night cereus flower does not refer to a single plant, but rather encompasses different varieties of cacti, including Selenicereus, Epiphyllum, Cereus, and others, that are characterized by their distinctive nocturnal blossoms.
These plants typically grow in arid deserts where water is scarce, and store water in their thick stems. Their blooming is triggered during periods of optimal temperature, humidity and moonlight.
Why Does It Bloom at Night?
The flower is pollinated during night, which is an adaptation for survival. The cool temperatures at night reduces water loss, attracting nocturnal pollinators like bats and moths. This guarantees the flower is pollinated during the gentler, cooler, and less harsh heat of the day.
The cereus cactus is composed of over 30 recognized species. Below are some of the most popular ones:
1. Cereus Peruvianus (Peruvian Apple Cactus)
2. Cereus Hildmannianus
3. Selenicereus Grandiflorus (Queen of the Night)
4. Cereus Repandus
5. Cereus Jamacaru
Each species has slightly different growing requirements but share the characteristic of jaw-dropping flowers that bloom briefly and beautifully.
It’s rewarding but requires patience. These cacti are relatively low-maintenance and ideal for both pots and gardens.
Sunlight
Cereus cactus plants need full sun exposure for at least 6–8 hours daily. If you’re growing indoors, place them near a south-facing window.
Soil
Use a well-draining cactus mix or sandy soil with perlite. Poor drainage can cause root rot.
Temperature
Container
A terracotta or clay pot with several drainage holes should be used, as these materials will retain moisture without creating waterlogged soil.
This is arguably the most asked question, especially with beginners: how frequently should cactus plants be watered?
For ease of understanding, here is a quick breakdown:
Remember, the primary killer of cereus cactus plants is overwatering. It’s always better to underwater.
While Cereus cacti are rugged, their flowers have specific requirements to bloom. Here’s how to tend to your night blooming cereus plant:
1. Provide Adequate Light
Mature plants require direct sunshine to encourage blooming. Indoor plants also need to be gradually acclimatized to direct sunlight so they don’t get scorched.
2. Control Watering
Control their fire by not keeping the soil waterlogged. Allow it to dry out between watering sessions. Use the soak and dry method; water generously, and then allow for complete drying.
3. Fertilize Wisely
Feed during the growing season with low nitrogen cactus fertilizer from March to September. Do not fertilize during the winter.
4. Pruning
Encourage the development of new shoots by pruning dead or damaged stems. Remember not to prune too heavily; flowers bloom on older stems.
5. Patience Is Key
Some species of cereus take a good 3–5 years before they show their first bloom. But when they do, it is quite something.
Wondering how to increase your chances of seeing that elusive cereus cactus flower? Here’s how to improve the chances:
Cereus cacti can be propagated by stem cuttings:
Steps:
Propagation increases your collection of these spectacular cacti and ensures genetic diversity.
Remember to look for species name, plant’s age, and shipping conditions while buying online.
The cereus flower is one of the most spectacular things in the plant world. It can be witnessed during a delicious silent starry night and with care and time, this floral event can happen in anyone’s home.
If all this makes you excited add the cereus cactus plant to your nightstand or garden as it requires very little care but provides great value and beauty. Prepare yourself for the species discovery and breathtaking sights filled with magic awaiting at the stroke of midnight.
