Selenicereus undatus – Moonlight Blooms and Sculptural Growth


Selenicereus undatus isn’t your average cactus. This fast-growing climber makes a bold statement with chunky, three-angled stems — but its real magic unfolds after dark. Its enormous white flowers open for just one fragrant night, often under moonlight, then vanish by morning. Once known as Hylocereus undatus, especially in fruit production, this species still stuns with or without blooms. Indoors, it's all about structure, wild growth, and unexpected surprises.
 
● Why Selenicereus undatus Deserves a Spot Indoors


Thick, triangular stems with wavy ridges and occasional spines
Silvery bloom on mature stems gives it a textured, matte look
Enormous, fragrant white flowers that open for one night only
Unpredictable growth — climbs, trails, or sprawls with ease
Fruits possible indoors with strong light and hand pollination (rare)
 
● Selenicereus undatus in Its Natural Habitat


Originally native to parts of Central America and the Caribbean, Selenicereus undatus grows in warm, seasonally dry environments — from rocky lowland forests to coastal cliffs. It climbs trees or scrambles over rocks using aerial roots. Thanks to its CAM metabolism, it opens its stomata at night to minimize water loss, making it well-suited for dry indoor air and intense light.
 
● Indoor Growing Tips for Selenicereus undatus


Light: Needs full sun or very bright indirect light for healthy growth and potential flowering
Watering: Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings; prefers deep but infrequent watering
Humidity: Average indoor air (30 – 60%) is fine — thrives in drier air
Temperature: Keep between 20 – 32 °C; avoid exposure below 10 °C
Soil: Use a cactus/succulent mix with added pumice or perlite for airflow
Feeding: Feed monthly with a balanced, low-nitrogen cactus fertiliser
Repotting: Every 2 – 3 years or when rootbound — no need to wait for spring
Propagation: Cut stems, let callous for 2 – 3 days, then root in dry substrate
Hydroponics: Not compatible — prefers airy, well-draining soil
Pruning: Trim as needed to control size or direct growth
 
● Common Problems and Their Fixes


Soft, collapsing stems: Overwatering — allow soil to dry completely before next watering
Wrinkled or shrunken stems: Underwatered — soak thoroughly and let drain
No flowering: Needs age, intense light, and manual pollination if indoors
Root pests: Root mealybugs can hide in soil — repot with fresh mix and clean roots
Sunburn: Acclimate slowly to direct sunlight to avoid bleaching or spotting
 
● Extra Tips for Thriving Growth


Let it sprawl wildly or offer a trellis — this cactus adapts fast. Indoors, flowers are rare, but not impossible with enough light and patience. Water sparingly, and always err on the dry side. Mimicking its native habitat — bright, warm, and dry — is the key to fast, vigorous growth.
 
● The Meaning Behind the Name


Selenicereus refers to Selene, the Greek moon goddess, paired with "cereus" for candle or torch — a nod to its upright form and night-blooming habit. “Undatus ” means wavy, describing its undulating stem edges. The species was originally described as Cereus undatus by Haworth and renamed by D.R. Hunt in 2017.
 
● Quick QandA About Selenicereus undatus


Can I get fruit indoors? Yes, but it's rare. You’ll need strong light, patience, and hand-pollination at the right moment.
Is it safe for pets? Yes — it's non-toxic to cats, dogs, and humans. The ripe fruit is also edible.
Why do the flowers bloom only at night? To attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats in its native range.
 
● Ready to Grow Your Own Moon Cactus?


This plant combines sculptural impact with rare bloom potential. Order Selenicereus undatus now and bring a slice of moonlit magic into your home.