In what environment does the night-blooming cereus grow most advantageously?

Other names for the night-blooming cereus

The night-blooming cereus is also known as the whip cactus, triangle cactus, three-ribbed arrow, dragon-bone flower, overlord flower, sword flower, triangle fire-bloom, and seven-star sword flower.

Growth habits of the night-blooming cereus

The night-blooming cereus is a climbing plant. It has epiphytic habits, using aerial roots to attach itself to tree trunks, walls or other objects. It likes warmth and warm air around its stems. It suits a semi-shaded environment; under direct strong sunlight the plant turns yellow. The optimal growth temperature is 25-35°C. It is sensitive to low temperatures; below 5°C, the stem segments easily rot. It likes fertile loam rich in humus; for potted plants, the soil can be made from equal parts leaf mold, coarse sand and decomposed manure.

Main value of the night-blooming cereus

The night-blooming cereus has some medicinal value and can be used as medicine to treat coughs and the like, but its main role is ornamental, as it can be grown as a potted plant; at the same time, the night-blooming cereus is also a good rootstock for grafting other cactus-family plants.