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Description
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum, also known as the Queen of the Night, is a species of cactus that is native to Central and South America. This beautiful and exotic plant is popular among gardeners and plant enthusiasts due to its large, fragrant, and stunningly beautiful white flowers that bloom only at night. The flowers can grow up to 30 centimeters in diameter and have long and narrow petals that resemble a star.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Epiphyllum |
| Species | Oxypetalum |
Appearance
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum has long and flat stems that can grow up to 6 meters in length. The stems are segmented and have small, spiky leaves that can easily fall off. The plant produces large, fragrant, and stunningly beautiful white flowers that bloom only at night. The flowers can grow up to 30 centimeters in diameter and have long and narrow petals that resemble a star. The plant can grow as a hanging plant, as well as a climbing plant when provided with support.
Care Guide
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it has specific requirements that need to be met in order to thrive. Here is a detailed care guide:
Water
The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. During the dormant season, which is from late fall to early spring, the plant should be watered sparingly.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. During the dormant season, fertilization is not necessary.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.
Sunlight
The plant prefers bright and indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11, but it can be grown indoors or in a greenhouse in colder zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is relatively pest-free, but it can be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by root rot and fungal diseases, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Epiphyllum Oxypetalum is native to Central and South America, where it grows in rainforests and other tropical habitats. The plant is an epiphyte, which means it grows on other plants, such as trees, and does not require soil to grow. The plant can also grow as a lithophyte, which means it grows on rocks.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Epiphyllum Oxypetalum?
A: The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season, which is from spring to fall. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. During the dormant season, which is from late fall to early spring, the plant should be watered sparingly.
Q: What kind of soil is best for Epiphyllum Oxypetalum?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal.
Q: What kind of sunlight does Epiphyllum Oxypetalum prefer?
A: The plant prefers bright and indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and flowers.
Q: How big can the flowers of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum grow?
A: The flowers can grow up to 30 centimeters in diameter.
Related Plants
- Epiphyllum Anguliger
- Epiphyllum Phyllanthus
- Epiphyllum Hookeri
- Epiphyllum Crenatum
- Epiphyllum X Hybridum
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/epiphyllum/queen-of-the-night-epiphyllum.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/epiphyllum/growing-epiphyllum-cactus.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/epiphyllum-oxypetalum-profile-1902936
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/epiphyllum-oxypetalum-queen-of-the-night
