Dutchman's pipe cactus (Epiphyllum oxypetalum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Dutchman's pipe cactus on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Cactaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 10–40 °C
About Dutchman's pipe cactus
Epiphyllum oxypetalum, commonly known as 'Queen of the Night', is an epiphytic cactus renowned for its spectacular, fragrant white flowers that bloom only at night. Its flat stems and trailing habit make it ideal for hanging baskets or as an indoor plant in a prominent spot where its ephemeral, nocturnal flowering can be appreciated.
Native range
Mexico and Central America
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light, avoiding direct midday sun which can scorch its stems. Water moderately, allowing the substrate to dry out slightly between waterings, and reduce frequency in winter. Use a well-draining, organically rich substrate, and avoid waterlogging, which is its main enemy and can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Dutchman's pipe cactus
- Warning signs
- Yellowish, soft, drooping leaves (flattened stems) or dark spots. Lack of new shoots. Rot at the base.
- First aid
- Check soil: if waterlogged, remove plant, cut rotten roots, let dry, repot. If dry, water deeply.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its nemesis. Also lack of indirect light or extreme cold.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes! It's resilient. With pruning and adjusted watering, it usually recovers.