Epiphyllum oxypetalum aka Dutchman's Pipe Cactus

Taxonomy

Epiphyllum oxypetalum, commonly known as the Dutchman's pipe cactus, princess of the night, or queen of the night, is a species of cactus native to Southern Mexico and a wide area in South America. It is a widely cultivated epiphyllum species with large, fragrant white flowers that can get quite large. Its most distinct characteristic is that its flowers only bloom at night, wilting by dawn. It is an easy to care for houseplant that prefers long lasting, direct light and should be kept no more than 1 foot from a window. The soil should be extremely well-draining, and plants shouldn't need additional fertilizers if they are repotted each time they double in size. Plant parents find this species to be a fast grower with lush leaves, currently grown in 867 homes around the world.

Common names

Dutchman's Pipe Cactus, Lady Of The Night., Queen Of The Night, Night Blooming Cereus

How to care for Dutchman's Pipe Cactus

Difficulty

With its straightforward care requirements, Dutchman's Pipe Cactus is a hassle-free plant that anyone can enjoy.

Water

Dutchman's Pipe Cactus does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

Soil

The Dutchman's Pipe Cactus is very susceptible to soil that is too wet, so it's essential to choose a potting soil that drains well and does not retain excessive moisture. A soil mix that includes plenty of perlite or vermiculite for drainage and some organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can easily create this type of soil by adding a few handfuls of perlite to regular cactus soil from the store.

Lighting

Dutchman's Pipe Cactus requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Night Blooming Cereus will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Cat approves this plant

Toxicity

Dutchman's Pipe Cactus is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

Humidity

Dutchman's Pipe Cactus prefers dry environments, but by misting the plant or providing extra humidity, water will linger on the leaves and create an ideal environment for fungi that could be harmful.

Fertilizer

The Dutchman's Pipe Cactus is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.

Region of origin

Dutchman's Pipe Cactus’s native range is Central and South America.

Flower

If you provide your Dutchman's Pipe Cactus with adequate amounts of sunlight and water, it will bloom.


More info:
Wikipedia