Nyctocereus (Cactus)

The name literally means "Cereus of the night", in reference to its characteristic nocturnal flowering. The suffix "cereus" indicates instead the erect habit of its only species - the Nyctocereus serpentinus - with thin stems that, as they get longer, tend to become creeping or climbing. It is particularly appreciated, however, mainly for its crested form, that is produced in nurseries, characterized by the long shaggy spine of a dark red color, that gives it a spectacular sculptural effect and makes it perfect for pot cultivation and decorating any environment. If you are patient enough to wait for the sunset, this cactus will amaze you with its large funnel-shaped flowers and exotic scent! Here are some tips for its proper care and cultivation: It likes very bright places, however, is important to avoid direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day. It is preferable to keep it at mild temperatures and never below 8 °C, for this reason it is recommended to shelter it during the winter period. Water moderately and only when the soil is completely dry. It is enough to water it once a week in spring and summer, reduce it to once every two months in autumn and to suspend it completely in winter. The best soil is a well-draining one, even better if further enriched with inert materials such as pumice, sand or lapilli. They do not need frequent fertilization, it is sufficient to dilute a specific fertilizer with watering once a year.