Selenicereus grandiflorus

Epiphytic cacti are a good option when you want to have, for example, an original plant on the balcony. If it also produces large and beautiful flowers like the Selenicereus grandiflorus, is even more interesting. In fact, this species is very loved by collectors, precisely because of its magnificent flowering.

Likewise, it is important to note that its maintenance is not complicated. And it is that although it is a cactus of tropical origin, it is well adapted to living in the warm temperate regions of the world.

Origin and characteristics of Selenicereus grandiflorus

Selenicereus grandiflorus is an epiphytic cactus that goes by the common name of queen of the night. It grows in Mexico, Central America and South America, at an altitude of about 700 meters above sea level. Develops stems that branch a lot, greenish in color, with whitish or white-greyish areolas and brownish or yellowish spines, which measure 4 to 12 millimeters.

The flowers are white, measuring between 17 and 22 centimeters long by up to 38 centimeters in diameter., and they are fragrant, with an aroma similar to that of vanilla. These sprout at dusk. The fruit is white-pink, yellow or orange, with an ovoid shape, and is 5 to 10 centimeters long by 4 to 7 centimeters thick. The maximum height of the plant once mature is 9 to 12 meters.

What care do you need?

If you want to have a Selenicereus grandiflorus It is important that you take into account a series of things that we are going to explain below. This is a cactus that, due to its origin, does not resist frost unless it is specific and, above all, very weak.

But this doesn't really have to be a problem, as it is well suited to living in pots. In fact, it can be very interesting to plant it in a construction site -with holes in its base through which the water can escape-, on the terrace or patio. Let's see what their cares are for so that your specimen flourishes every year:

Location

This is a cactus that need light, but unlike others, it can be filtered. In its natural habitat it grows by climbing on trees and / or rocks, so it does not need to be directly shone by the Sun.

Only if you are going to have it indoors, it is highly recommended to get a lamp for plants so that its development is adequate. In this way, you will prevent it from becoming etiolate, that is, its stems from lengthening and weakening.

Earth

• Flower pot: As a substrate for pots, it is highly recommended to use coarse sand (pumice, akadama, kiryuzuna or similar) mixed with a little peat.
• Garden: the soil in which it will grow must be light, and sandy. It is important that the water drains very well, as it does not like puddles. It can be on stony soils without problem.

Irrigation

The frequency of irrigation will depend on several factors, including location and climate. But it is always important that the soil be allowed to dry between waterings, otherwise the plant could rot.

In addition, every time you go to water you must moisten all the earth. You will know this if you see that as soon as you add the water it is absorbed, and that the excess water comes out through the holes in the pot.

In the event that it is planted in the ground, you must add it until the earth is well moistened.

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During spring and summer, which is when it is growing, it is advisable to pay at Selenicereus grandiflorus with a cactus fertilizer. Follow the instructions for use, and you will ensure that it has a correct development, as well as a slightly faster growth rate.

Multiplication

If you want to get new copies, it is highly advisable to multiply it by stem cuttings. This is done in spring, simply cutting a piece, waiting about 7 days for the wound to dry well, and then planting it in a pot with a cheek bone for example. In about 10 days it will produce its first roots, but you must have it in that same container for at least a year, until it has rooted well.

Another way to multiply it is by seeds, also in spring although it is possible in summer. These you have to sow them in seedbeds with holes, for example pots or planters, and with quality cactus soil (for sale No products found.). Place the seeds on the surface, without crowding them, and spray them with water.

Both the cutting and the seedbed have to be put in semi-shade, without direct sunlight.

Plagues and diseases

It does not have many, as it is very resistant. However, it is important to protect yourself from snails, and not overwatered to avoid fungal infections.

Rusticity

The adult specimens and that are already acclimatized they can withstand up to -1,1ºC, as long as they are very punctual and short-lived frosts.

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