Why does Epiphyllum bloom only once?

The blooming time of Epiphyllum

The blooming period of Epiphyllum is very short. It blooms in summer, usually in the evening. The white petals slowly unfold, which is beautiful and moving. However, the blooming period of Epiphyllum is very short, usually only 3-4 hours, and then it will wither soon.

In order to extend the viewing time of Epiphyllum, people usually take various methods to extend the flowering period. However, the night-blooming cereus can only bloom for a short time. As they say – a flash in the pan!

Why does Epiphyllum bloom only once?

The short-lived beauty of Epiphyllum is actually closely related to its growth habits.

Epiphyllum is native to the tropical desert regions of America, where the environment is hot and dry. The temperature is very high during the day, so the night-blooming cereus blooms when the temperature is lower. Another point is that Epiphyllum needs insects for pollination. In the desert, insects are more active at 8 or 9 o'clock in the evening. Opening at this time is conducive to pollination. However, after midnight, the temperature is not conducive to insect activities, which makes it difficult for the Epiphyllum to pollinate. The Epiphyllum will close its petals and then wither.

Later, in the long process of evolution, Epiphyllum developed such a flowering habit, which brought people the amazing - the short-lived beauty! !