Imagine a cactus that blooms only at night , revealing breathtakingly beautiful flowers that last just for a few hours . Sounds magical , does n’t it ? That ’s the temptingness of the Selenicereus , also known as the Moonlight Cactus . With over 34 mesmerizing varieties , these cacti offer a captivating show of nocturnal beauty .
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A Glimpse into the Moonlight Cactus Family
Selenicereus plants belong to theCactaceae familyand are native to Central and South America , as well as the West Indies . While some metal money can be maturate indoors , others thrive outside , mount trees or trailing along the ground . Their stems come in various shapes , from angled to costate or even flattened , often skylark intrigue rearward - facing lobe that help them stick to surfaces .
Moonlight Magic
As night fall , the true luster of Selenicereus blossom forth . tremendous livid flowers , often reaching 6 inches in diameter , burst open , filling the line with inebriate fragrance . These nocturnal beaut tempt moths and bats for pollination , creating a mesmerizing spectacle under the moonlight .
Selenicereus: A Kaleidoscope of Captivating Varieties
Get ready to be sweep out by the unbelievable diverseness of Selenicereus varieties . From the quirky zigzag patterns of the fishbone cactus to the majestic dish of the princess of the Nox , each variety promises a unique and captivating experience .
Caring for Your Moonlight Cactus
Sunlight Serenity
moonshine cactithrive in bright , verbatim sunlightduring the morning or late afternoon hours . However , be cautious of intense midday sun , which can sear their soft stems . target for a spot that receives around 4 - 6 hours of lineal sunlight each day .
The Goldilocks Zone
Just like the famous pouf tale , these cacti prefer temperatures that are not too hot and not too cold . debar endanger them to temperature below 50 ° F ( 10 ° vitamin C ) , as they ’ll start to sulk and may even bid farewell to this world . Ideally , keep them in a reach of 65 ° degree Fahrenheit to 85 ° F ( 18 ° C to 29 ° nose candy ) for optimum growth and blooming .
A Well-Drained Oasis
Moon cacti have a love - hatred family relationship with water . While they starve moisture , they despise mucky soil , which can lead to root buncombe and other problems . Ensure their potting premix is well - debilitate by incorporating materials like perlite , pumice , or vulgar sand . Water good , but only when the stain is whole dry to the touch .
The Perfect Blend
These cacti have rarify tastes when it follow to soil . cover them to a blend of adequate parts potting admixture , perlite or pumice , and browned peat moss . This magical combination will leave the idealistic balance of drain and wet retention , control your moonlight cactus feels right at home .
A Refreshing Drink
Like any living being , Moon cacti apprize a refreshing drink now and then . However , they ’re sensitive someone that ca n’t put up surd water system or high levels of salts and minerals . Use rainwater , distilled weewee , or allow dab water to sit for 24 hours before using it , allow the chlorine to fritter .
A Gentle Boost
During the growing time of year , which typically race from mid - natural spring to summer , these cacti can benefit from a soft rise . Apply acactus - specific fertilizeronce a month , following the producer ’s instructions . This extra nourishment will encourage luxuriant growth and abundant blooms .
Pruning Perfection
Unlike their bristled full cousin , moonlight cacti ask minimal pruning . However , if you mark any discredited or discolored root word , feel free to trim them off with clean , sharp scissors or pruners . This will serve airt the plant ’s energy into healthy growth .
Selenicereus anthonyanus
Selenicereus anthonyanus
Selenicereus costaricensis
Selenicereus grandiflorus
Selenicereus monacanthus
Selenicereus undatus
