Night-Blooming Cereus

Did you know

• Each magnificent flower opens only once, for a single night, and wilts by dawn.
• The flowers can measure up to 12 inches across and are intensely fragrant with a vanilla-like scent.
• In some communities, the blooming is a social event, with neighbors alerting each other when a flower is about to open.
• The genus name Selenicereus comes from Selene, the Greek moon goddess, referencing its nocturnal blooming.
• Sphinx moths and bats are the primary pollinators, attracted by the strong scent and white color visible in moonlight.

Color meanings

Uses

• ornamental
• traditional medicine
• cultural events