Selenicereus undatus – Climbing Cactus with Night Blooms and Edible Fruit
Selenicereus undatus may look wild and unruly by day, but it reveals its true character at night. That’s when its massive, fragrant white flowers open for just a few hours — a short-lived but breathtaking event. This species is still widely known under its older name, Hylocereus undatus, especially in the context of dragon fruit production. Even without fruit, it’s a visually striking cactus: a fast-growing, climbing or trailing plant with sculptural three-ribbed stems, aerial roots, and an unpredictable, architectural growth pattern.
Distinct Features and Visual Appeal
Triangular, wavy stems with defined ridges and small spines
Pale, greyish spotting on older stems
Large white flowers that open only at night
Can bear fruit with enough light and hand pollination
Grows as a climber, trailer, or rambler depending on support
Origin, Growth Habit, and Key Facts
Originally from Central America and the Caribbean, Selenicereus undatus is now naturalized in tropical regions worldwide. In the wild, it climbs trees or scrambles over rocks in warm, dry climates with seasonal rainfall and average temperatures between 20–35 °C. It’s a climbing cactus with a CAM metabolism and belongs to the family Cactaceae. Indoors, it can grow up to 1.5–2 m in height or length. The plant is non-toxic, long-lived, and can thrive for decades with proper care. Although now classified as Selenicereus, it still appears in the trade under the name Hylocereus undatus.
Care Tips for Selenicereus undatus
Placement: Very bright to sunny, warm, and well-ventilated
Light: Direct sun or extremely bright indirect light
Water: Water only when soil is completely dry
Humidity: 30–60% is sufficient
Temperature: Ideal between 20–32 °C
Soil: Well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice
Repotting: Every 2–3 years or if rootbound
Feeding: Monthly during growth season with cactus fertiliser
Propagation: Very easy via stem cuttings – let them callus before planting
Hydroponics: Not suitable due to its dry-growing habit
Pruning: Can be trimmed as needed to shape or control size
Common Issues and Solutions
Soft or rotting stems: Caused by overwatering — adjust your watering schedule
Wrinkled stems: Sign of underwatering — water thoroughly
No blooms: Plant may be too young or lacking light
Root mealybugs: Repot, clean roots, and replace substrate
Sunburn: White patches from sudden sun exposure — acclimate gradually
Extra Notes for Long-Term Success
Whether hanging or climbing, this cactus needs space and plenty of light. While flowering indoors is rare, it’s possible with age, strong light, and manual pollination — and yes, it can fruit indoors under the right conditions. Its succulent stems store water, and it uses CAM photosynthesis — meaning it’s better to underwater than overwater. Replicating its natural habitat (hot, dry, well-draining) is the key to keeping it happy long-term.
Etymology
The name Selenicereus combines “Selene” (Greek moon goddess) and “cereus” (candle or waxy column) — a reference to its night-blooming habit and columnar stems. The species name undatus means “wavy,” describing the rippled edges of its stems. Originally described as Cereus undatus by Adrian Hardy Haworth, the current classification Selenicereus undatus was published by David R. Hunt in 2017.
3 Frequently Asked Questions about Selenicereus undatus
Can I grow dragon fruit from this plant indoors?
Yes — but only with lots of light, maturity, and hand pollination. Fruiting indoors is rare, but possible.
Is this plant toxic?
No. It’s non-toxic to humans and pets. The fruit is even edible.
Why does it only bloom at night?
That’s part of its natural pollination strategy. The flowers open for a single night and wilt by morning.
Order Selenicereus undatus now and bring home a spectacular night-bloomer with climbing power and fruit potential.