There are indeed different types of nighttime blooming cereus . While the queen of the night ( Epiphyllum oxypetalum ) is the most well - recognize and democratic variety , there are really many other mintage that return under the umbrella of Nox blooming genus Cereus . This can lead to confusion when hash out them , as many plant species are commonly referred to as “ queen of the night . ”
One of the reason for this disarray is that the term “ night blooming genus Cereus ” is often used as a general name for any cactus or succulent that blooms at night . However , there are several distinct genus within this group of plant life , each with its own alone characteristic and blossom patterns . Here are some object lesson of different types of night blooming cereus :
1 . Epiphyllum : This is the genus that includes the popular queen of the nighttime ( Epiphyllum oxypetalum ) . These plant have level , leaf - similar bow and produce large , fragrant flowers that typically bloom at nighttime and close by morning . They are often grown as ornamental plant and are prized for their arresting blooms .
2 . Selenicereus : This genus includes several species commonly known as moonlight cacti . These plant have long , mount or hang back stem with backbone and give rise large , fragrant flowers that open at dark and last until morning . One well - known species in this genus is Selenicereus grandiflorus , also known as the night - blossom cereus .
3 . Hylocereus : This genus include several species normally lie with as dragon fruit or pitaya . While most varieties of dragon fruit bloom at night , there are also some day - flower varieties . The flowers of these flora are heavy and showy , and they often bring out edible fruit .
4 . Cereus : This genus let in several species unremarkably recognise as cereus cacti . These plants typically have marvelous , columnar stems with spines and produce large , whitened or xanthous peak that open up at night and cheeseparing by morning . One well - known species in this genus is Cereus peruvianus , also known as the nighttime - blooming cereus .
5 . Peniocereus : This genus include several species commonly known as desert night - blooming cereus . These plants have long , slight stem and raise fragrant flowers that open at night and last until morning . They are native to arid region of North and Central America .
It ’s important to take note that the specific names and classifications of dark blooming cereus plants can vary , and there may be different specie within each genus . to boot , there are in all likelihood many more lesser - known or rare mintage of nighttime blossom cereus that are not commonly discussed or civilise .
In my own experience as a nurseryman and plant enthusiast , I have had the joy of spring up and note dissimilar eccentric of night blooming genus Cereus . Each potpourri has its own unique beauty and charm , and it is always a delight to see their spectacular blooms . Whether it ’s the enchanting queer of the nighttime or the striking moonlight cacti , these flora contribute a touch of magic trick to any garden or landscape painting .
Caroline Bates
