Scientific Name
Selenicereus undatus (Haw.) D.R.Hunt
Common Name(s)
Belle of the Night, Cinderella Plant, Dragon Fruit, Honolulu Queen, Moonlight Cactus, Night-blooming Cereus, Pitaya, Queen of the Night, Red Pitaya, Strawberry Pear, White-fleshed Pitahaya
Synonym(s)
Cereus undatus, Cereus undulatus, Harrisia undata, Hylocereus undatus
Scientific Classification
Family: Cactaceae
Subfamily: Cactoideae
Tribe: Hylocereeae
Genus: Selenicereus
Origin
The precise origin of Selenicereus undatus is uncertain, and it may be a hybrid.
Description
Selenicereus undatus, formerly known as Hylocereus undatus, is a lithophytic or hemiepiphytic cactus with creeping, sprawling, or clambering stems. It branches profusely, and its stems can grow up to 33 feet (10 m) long and climb by aerial roots. They are green, with up to 4 feet (1.2 m) long joints, generally three ribs, and 1 to 3 conical spines per areole. The margins are horny and undulate, with wings up to 2 inches (5 cm) wide. The spines are grayish-brown to black and can grow up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) long.
The scented nocturnal flowers are white with green outer tepals and bracts and can reach up to 14 inches (35 cm) in length and 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter. They appear from late spring to early summer. The fruits are oblong to oval and can grow up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) long and 3.6 inches (9 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Like most cacti, Cereus are fairly low-maintenance and hardy. Ensure they receive enough water without becoming waterlogged, especially during the summer, and fertilize them for the best results. If the roots have become black or overly soft, the cactus could be experiencing root rot. Cut away the affected parts and replant. Most gardeners interested in cacti should be able to cultivate these without much problem.
If your Cereus outgrows its container, it may become necessary to repot it. If so, ensure the soil is dry and remove the pot. Knock away old soil, prune away any rotted or dead roots, and then replace it in a new pot and backfill it with fresh soil. Do not overwater cacti planted in new pots, as this can lead to root rot. It should be left dry for about a week and then watered lightly.
These cacti propagate pretty easily from cuttings. Sever a branch and replant in moist, well-drained soil.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Cereus.
Links
- Back to genus Selenicereus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
