I am a magnificent and fragrant night-blooming flower, known as the "Queen of the Night" for my large, pure white, lotus-like blossoms that open after sunset and release an intense, intoxicating perfume. My flowers are short-lived, often lasting just one night, but my spectacular beauty and enchanting fragrance make me a cherished and mystical addition to moon gardens and tropical landscapes.

Native to Central and South America, particularly Mexico and Brazil, I am now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including India. I belong to the cactus family but defy typical cactus appearance with my lush, leafy stems and stunning nocturnal blooms.

I prefer moderate watering during the growing season (spring to autumn), allowing the topsoil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter when I am dormant. Overwatering can cause root rot, especially in cool conditions.

I thrive in bright, indirect light or partial shade. I can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sunlight, which can scorch my stems. Filtered light under trees or shaded patios is ideal.

I flourish in warm, humid conditions between 18°C to 30°C. I am sensitive to frost and temperatures below 10°C. In cooler climates, I can be grown in pots and brought indoors during winter.

Plant me in well-draining soil rich in organic matter, such as a mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite. I can be grown in hanging baskets, pots, or directly in the ground with support for my trailing stems. Ensure good air circulation around the plant.

Feed me with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the active growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter when growth slows.

Botanical name: Epiphyllum oxypetalum. Family: Cactaceae. Despite being a cactus, I have flat, leaf-like stems and am epiphytic in nature. I am also known as "Night-blooming Cereus," "Dutchman's Pipe Cactus," or "Brahma Kamal" in some regions.

Non-toxic to cats and dogs. I am safe around pets, though it's always wise to prevent them from chewing on any houseplant to avoid mild digestive discomfort.

Moderate. Like many leafy plants, I help improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. My presence can also increase humidity through transpiration.

I am highly valued for my breathtaking nocturnal blooms and exquisite fragrance. I am often grown for ornamental and symbolic purposes, and in some cultures, my flowering is considered auspicious. I also attract night pollinators like moths.

Overwatering is the most common issue, leading to root or stem rot. Mealybugs and scale insects can infest stems. Lack of blooming may be due to insufficient light, excessive nitrogen fertilizer, or a need for a winter rest period.

I am a long-lived perennial and can thrive for decades with proper care. While individual flowers last only one night, a healthy plant can produce multiple blooms throughout the warm months, year after year.