Cereus – Tropical Cactus
Tropical varieties of Cereus grow in the trees of South American rainforests. They have very showy flowers which only bloom at night.
These epiphytes are known as night blooming cereus, orchid cactus, and queen of the night.
Most Popular Types
Cereus means “cactus,” and there are quite a few varieties that are considered night blooming cereus. Growing Hobby usually has a good selection of Dog Tail cactus (Selinicereus testudo) and Hooker’s orchid cactus (Epiphyllum hookeri).
Light
Bright indirect light
Temperatures
Tropical cacti prefer nights no cooler than 60°F. You’ll need to bring these in when the evenings start to cool off.
Watering
Don’t let the soil of tropical cacti completely dry out. Water regularly, but don’t keep the soil soggy.
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
Growth
These cacti are epiphytes, hanging from branches of trees in rainforests. The more rootbound it is, the more likely it is to flower. In its native environment, it can drape 10 ft.
Origin
Central and South American tropical rainforests
Propagation
You can propagate these plants by leaf clippings or by seeds.
Dormancy
Winter dormant
cereus desert vs tropical
Desert and tropical cacti need different care.
Night blooming cereus
This tropical variety of Cereus blooms only at night.
Cereus
night blooming cereus
Blooming late at night, these flowers glow in the moonlight.
Workshops at Growing Hobby
Workshop schedule set for after work hours and on Sunday afternoons. We now have central heating and air to make you more comfortable while you shop and attend workshops.