Emm's Plant House

Selenicereus grandiflorus 'Queen of the night' 13cm H15cm

£22.00 GBP

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Pot Size 13cm H15cm

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Selenicereus grandiflorus, commonly known as the Queen of the Night, is a night-blooming cactus known for its large, fragrant white flowers that bloom only at night. Native to Central and South America, this cactus is a popular choice for collectors and those seeking a unique, low-maintenance plant with a dramatic blooming cycle. Its tall, sprawling stems can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) long, making it perfect for hanging baskets or as a climbing plant.

Full Botanical Name: Selenicereus grandiflorus
Common Names: Queen of the Night, Night-Blooming Cereus
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to Central and South America
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in arid, rocky areas with well-draining soil, often found in desert and tropical environments where it receives full sunlight and minimal rainfall.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, direct sunlight. It thrives in full sun and benefits from exposure to at least six hours of sunlight per day. It can tolerate some light shade, but optimal growth and flowering occur with adequate sunlight.

Ideal Room: Ideal for sunny spots such as windowsills, patios, or hanging baskets. It can also be grown on a support structure if allowed to climb, adding vertical interest to plant displays.

Feeding: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can lead to weak growth, so it’s best to fertilize every 6-8 weeks. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter months when growth slows.

Humidity: Prefers low humidity, typical of desert environments. It will thrive in dry indoor spaces and does not require additional moisture in the air.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures.

Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. As a drought-tolerant succulent, it prefers to be on the drier side. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the plant has good drainage to avoid water accumulation around the roots.

Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe plant for homes with animals and young children. However, caution should be taken when handling due to the spines of the cactus.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A mix designed specifically for cacti will ensure proper drainage and prevent water retention around the roots.

Propagation: Propagate by stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem, let the cut end callous over for a few days, and then plant it in dry, well-draining soil. Rooting hormones can be applied to encourage faster rooting.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 10 feet (3 meters) long, with a spread of about 3-4 feet (90-120 cm). It forms a sprawling, climbing growth habit, perfect for hanging baskets or as a trailing plant on a support structure.

Growth Rate: Moderate to fast-growing. Selenicereus grandiflorus will grow quickly and can fill large spaces in a short period, especially during the growing season.

Pests and Treatment: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract mealybugs or aphids. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap to keep the plant healthy.

Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage to promote healthy root growth.

Pruning: Prune dead or damaged stems regularly to maintain a tidy appearance. Minimal pruning is necessary, but cutting back long stems can help control its size and encourage new growth.

Air Purification: Like many succulents, Selenicereus grandiflorus helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making it a beneficial addition to your home or office.

Folklore: Selenicereus species, including Selenicereus grandiflorus, are often associated with mystery and beauty due to their night-blooming nature. The rare and fleeting flowers are seen as symbols of resilience and strength, as they only bloom once a year, typically at night.

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