The Midnight Marvel Revealed: Epiphyllum oxypetalum

David Levy
4 min readSep 15, 2023

Ah, the Buddhist center in Los Angeles, a haven of tranquility and flora! Amidst its botanical wonders, one plant reigns supreme — the mysterious Epiphyllum oxypetalum. It’s the Queen of The Night, or as I like to call it, The Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus (quite the regal title, isn’t it?). Prepare to be enchanted as this blooming belle puts on a show that lasts as long as a hiccup. Blink, and it’s over! If you’re determined to catch this elusive superstar in action, you’ll need more than just one cup of espresso — make it five for good measure!

Queen of the Night Cactus — Photo By. David Levy

Initially, Epiphyllum oxypetalum might seem like a lazy slacker in the plant world. It defies the stereotypical image of a prickly cactus and appears rather lackluster. But hold your judgment, my friend, because beneath its unassuming exterior lies a nocturnal spectacle worth unraveling. As I delved deeper into its secrets, questions sprouted like weeds. Is it just a pretty face? Why do its buds resemble, ahem, phallic shapes? And amidst its grandeur, does it possess any medicinal mojo? Let’s embark on a journey together to uncover these captivating enigmas, shall we?

Embracing Midnight Royalty

Epiphyllum oxypetalum belongs to the esteemed Cactaceae family, with its ancestral roots tracing back to Mexico and Guatemala. Today, it has become a worldwide…

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David Levy

Aspiring writer, Human Rights Activist, Citizen Mycologist, Nature Photographer….so many hats to wear in my daily life. theoutdoororacle.com