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Description
Selenicereus Spinulosus, also known as the Queen of the Night, is a succulent plant that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to the Caribbean and Central America and is widely cultivated for its beautiful flowers, which bloom at night. The plant has long, thin stems that can grow up to 10 feet long and are covered with sharp spines. The stems are green and can have a bluish tint. The flowers are large and white, with a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Selenicereus |
Appearance
Selenicereus Spinulosus has long, thin stems that can grow up to 10 feet long and are covered with sharp spines. The stems are green and can have a bluish tint. The flowers are large and white, with a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators. The plant blooms at night and the flowers last for only one night. The fruit of the plant is edible and is often used to make jams and jellies.
Care Guide
- Water: Water the plant sparingly, once a week in the summer and once every two weeks in the winter. The soil should be allowed to dry out between watering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month in the summer with a cactus fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter.
- Soil: Selenicereus Spinulosus prefers well-draining soil. A cactus mix or a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss can be used.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Selenicereus Spinulosus is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selenicereus Spinulosus is susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with a neem oil solution. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water the plant too often.
Habitat
Selenicereus Spinulosus is native to the Caribbean and Central America. It grows in rocky areas and is often found growing on trees in the wild. The plant prefers warm temperatures and high humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selenicereus Spinulosus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is in a bright, sunny location and is watered sparingly.
Q: How often should Selenicereus Spinulosus be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized once a month in the summer with a cactus fertilizer. Do not fertilize in the winter.
Q: How tall can Selenicereus Spinulosus grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 10 feet long.
Q: Can the fruit of Selenicereus Spinulosus be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and is often used to make jams and jellies.
Related Plants
- Selenicereus Grandiflorus
- Selenicereus Chrysocardium
- Selenicereus Anthonyanus
References
- “Selenicereus Spinulosus – Cactus Jungle.” Cactus Jungle, 2021, www.cactusjungle.com/plant/selenicereus-spinulosus/.
- “Selenicereus Spinulosus.” World of Succulents, 2021, worldofsucculents.com/selenicereus-spinulosus-queen-of-the-night/.
- “Selenicereus Spinulosus (Queen of the Night) Care Guide – Epic Gardening.” Epic Gardening, 2021, epicgardening.com/selenicereus-spinulosus/.
