Contents
Description
Selenicereus Vagans is a species of cactus native to Central America and parts of South America. It is commonly known as the Night Blooming Cactus or Moonlight Cactus due to its nocturnal blooming. The plant has long, thin, green stems that can grow up to several meters in length, with small spines along the edges. The flowers are large, white, and fragrant, opening at night and closing by morning.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Selenicereus |
Appearance
The Selenicereus Vagans has long, thin, green stems that can grow up to several meters in length. The stems have small spines along the edges, and the plant can climb structures or other plants using aerial roots. The flowers are large, white, and fragrant, up to 20 centimeters in length, and bloom at night, closing by morning. The fruit is edible and can be up to 10 centimeters long, with a red or pink outer layer and a white or pink interior containing numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Selenicereus Vagans is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly in the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out completely. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season using a cactus-specific fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selenicereus Vagans is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be treated with a solution of water and dish soap or an insecticidal soap. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Selenicereus Vagans is native to Central America and parts of South America, including Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including rainforests, dry forests, and scrublands.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Selenicereus Vagans?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In the winter, reduce watering and allow the soil to dry out completely.
Q: Can Selenicereus Vagans be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Selenicereus Vagans can be grown indoors in bright, indirect sunlight. It is important to ensure that the plant has well-draining soil and is not overwatered.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Selenicereus Vagans?
A: Use a cactus-specific fertilizer and fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Selenicereus Vagans?
A: Selenicereus Vagans can be propagated using stem cuttings. Allow the cuttings to dry out for several days before planting them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Selenicereus Grandiflorus
- Selenicereus Hamatus
- Selenicereus Megalanthus
- Selenicereus Pteranthus
References
- “Selenicereus Vagans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287496&isprofile=0&basic=Selenicereus%20vagans.
- “Selenicereus Vagans.” Plant Care Today. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/selenicereus-vagans.html.
- “Night Blooming Cereus.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/scgen/night-blooming-cereus.htm.
