Night-Blooming Cereus Cactus Plants
Read MoreExplore our incredible collection of Cereus cactus plants, a super cool group of cacti from South America: known for their tall, columnar shape. These blooming cereus cacti have beautiful, showy flowers that bloom at night. Some popular night-blooming cereus species include Selenicereus grandiflorus, Peniocereus greggii, and Cereus repandus, are ideal for arid garden landscapes due to their striking blooms. At the bottom of the page, discover and learn more about these night-blooming cereus cacti care and features in detail.
Cereus Cactus Key Features:
Here are some main key features of the varieties of the cereus cactus plants:
- The stems of the cereus cactus are often tall and columnar, with ridges or ribs running vertically along the length of the stem. These ribs give the cactus a unique and architectural appearance.
- The flowers of the cereus cactus are large and showy, typically blooming at night. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and pink. Their fragrance is often described as sweet and intoxicating, attracting nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats.
- Propagating the cereus cactus is relatively easy. One common method is through stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem segment, allow it to dry and callus for a few days, then plant it in well-draining soil. Another method is by collecting and planting the seeds found in the ripe fruit of the blooming cactus.
- Some species of these night blooming cacti can reach impressive heights, with certain varieties growing up to 60 feet tall. These towering cacti make a dramatic statement in any garden or landscape.
- Like most cacti, cereus cacti have spines covering their stems. These spines serve as a protective feature, helping the cacti conserve water and ward off potential threats.
Cereus Cactus Care
When it comes to caring for these flowering cactus plants, keep the following points in mind:
Quick Reference
Bloom Season
Flower Color
Growth Rate
Hardiness Zone
Mature Size
Plant Type
Sun Exposure
Toxicity
Watering Needs
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering the cereus cactus, it's important to strike a balance. These cacti are desert plants, so they're used to dry conditions. Water sparingly and allow the soil to dry between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it's better to err on the side of underwatering. A good rule of thumb is to water thoroughly but infrequently, making sure the soil is completely dry before watering again. Remember, it's always better to underwater than to overwater when it comes to cacti!
Light Requirements
The cereus cactus has specific light requirements both indoors and outdoors. When grown indoors, these cereus cacti prefer bright, indirect light. Placing them near a sunny window where they can receive a few hours of indirect sunlight each day is ideal. However, be cautious of direct, intense sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate stems. Outdoors, cereus cacti thrive in full sunlight for at least 4-6 hours a day. They love basking in the warm rays of the sun, so find a sunny spot in your garden or patio where they can soak up the light. Just make sure to acclimate them gradually to prevent sunburn. So, whether it's indoors or outdoors, providing the right amount of light is key for the cereus cactus to flourish!
Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs
When it comes to the optimal soil for the cereus cactus, it's important to choose a well-draining soil mix. A combination of cactus potting mix and perlite or coarse sand works well to provide good drainage and prevent waterlogged roots. This helps mimic the natural desert habitat of the cactus. As for fertilizer, the cereus cactus doesn't require a lot of nutrients. During the growing season, you can use a balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble cactus fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Apply it once a year to provide a little boost. Just remember not to overdo it, as too much fertilizer can harm the cactus.
Hardiness Zones & More
When it comes to growing the cereus cactus indoors, it thrives in average room temperatures between 65°F to 75°F. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it's best to avoid extreme cold drafts or sudden temperature drops. The cereus cactus is quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of humidity levels commonly found in indoor environments.
If you are living in USDA zones 9-11, you can grow these blooming cereus cacti outdoors year-round. These zones generally have mild winters and warm temperatures year-round. The cereus cactus can tolerate temperatures as low as 25°F for short periods, but it's best to protect it from frost and freezing temperatures. In terms of humidity, the cereus cactus is well-suited to arid and semi-arid climates, where humidity levels are generally lower.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the blooming cereus cactus is a fascinating and beautiful plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors with its beautiful flowers that bloom at night. When growing indoors, it enjoys bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Outdoors, it flourishes in full sunlight and can tolerate a range of temperatures in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. While it doesn't require a lot of fertilizer, a balanced cactus fertilizer can give it a little boost during the growing season. The cereus cactus is a resilient and adaptable plant that brings a touch of desert charm wherever it grows. So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced plant enthusiast, the cereus cactus is definitely worth adding to your collection.
Other popular cactus genus types include Rhipsalis, Cylindropuntia, and Echinocereus.