Queen of the night (Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus)

Queen of the night

Queen of the night is a resilient columnar cactus often recognized for its ribbed, green stems that can tower up to 6 meters tall. Its nocturnal white flowers bloom briefly, inviting pollination, while the fleshy, spiny exterior is adapted to arid environments by retaining moisture and deterring herbivores. Thriving in rocky soils, queen of the night's root system anchors it against strong winds.

Scientific classification

Species

Queen of the night (Cereus hildmannianus subsp. uruguayanus)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Vine, Shrub

Plant Type

1 m

Plant Height

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

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Care Guide for Queen of the night

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Queen of the night thrives in arid regions, exhibiting drought tolerance. It requires minimal watering—deep soaked once weekly. Preferring well-draining soil, queen of the night is best cultivated outdoors to receive ample sunlight and natural temperature and moisture fluctuations.

Fertilize: To promote optimal growth of queen of the night, fertilize every 2-4 weeks during the growing season with a balanced 10-10-10 formula. Switch to high nitrogen prior to blooming. Use quarter-strength solutions, water before and after fertilization, and reduce feeding in winter to enhance overall health and flowering potential.

Pruning: Queen of the night requires annual pruning during dormancy (early to late winter) to maintain shape and health. Remove dead stems and control size to improve air circulation and encourage new growth. Use clean tools to prevent infection, following trusted horticultural practices.

Propagation: Queen of the night, a cactus with striking nocturnal blooms, propagates easily from cuttings. Choose a healthy stem segment, let the cut end callous, and plant in well-draining cactus mix. Offer indirect light and minimal moisture until roots form, then gradually increase care.

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