Night-Blooming Cereus
Night-Blooming Cereus Overview
The first night-blooming cereus arrived in Hawaii in 1830 aboard the sailing ship Ivanhoe. The plant has a fleshy stem with aerial roots, which makes it capable of climbing up trees and walls. It blooms in the summer and fall. Its yellow-white flowers can be a foot (30 cm) long and emit a spicy fragrance. They open in the early evenings and wither the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called the night-blooming cereus?
This cactus blooms at night, usually after sunset. The large flowers open in the evening and wilt by morning, making them a rare and fleeting sight.
When does the night-blooming cereus flower in Hawaii?
It typically blooms during the summer and early fall, with peak blooming often occurring between June and October.
Does the cereus vine climb?
Yes, the night-blooming cereus has aerial roots that allow it to climb tree trunks, fences or even stone walls.
How did it come to Hawaii?
The first cereus plants arrived in Hawaii in 1830 aboard the ship Ivanhoe and have since become a popular ornamental species.
What does the flower smell like?
The large yellow-white blossoms emit a distinct spicy fragrance that intensifies during bloom hours in the evening.