Kadupul Flower (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) — Complete Care & Cultivation Guide
The Kadupul Flower — also known as “Queen of the Night,” “Flower from the Moon,” or simply “Kadupul” — is one of nature’s most magical and elusive blooms. Native to tropical rainforests, this epiphytic cactus enchants with its large, fragrant white flowers that bloom only at night and fade by dawn. 2
Scientific Classification & Origins
- Scientific Name: Epiphyllum oxypetalum 3
- Family: Cactaceae — cactus family. 4
- Natural Habitat: Tropical rainforests of Sri Lanka, parts of India and Central / South America. Grows often epiphytically — attached to tree trunks or branches, or in well‑draining forest soils. 5
- Growth Habit: Epiphytic or lithophytic cactus — meaning in wild it lives on trees or rocks rather than deep soil. 6
Appearance & Blooming Behavior
The Kadupul plant has flat, leaf‑like green stems (not spiny like desert cacti), and produces striking large white flowers. These flowers can reach up to about 25–30 cm in diameter (some sources mention about 12 inches) — quite large, trumpet‑ or lily‑like in shape. 7
What makes this flower legendary is its nocturnal bloom: the flower opens in the late evening (often between 10 PM and 11 PM), stays open for a few hours — often until around midnight — emitting a sweet, intoxicating fragrance that attracts pollinators like moths. By dawn the blossom wilts and dies. 8
This fleeting, ephemeral beauty — blooming only at night and vanishing by day — gives the Kadupul flower a mystical aura and has earned it nicknames like “Queen of the Night” or “Flower from Heaven.” 9
Why the Kadupul Flower Is So Special & Rare
- Ephemeral Bloom: The bloom lasts just a few hours; by sunrise the flower has already begun to wither. This makes witnessing a bloom a rare, almost magical event. 10
- Impossible to Commercialize: Because the flower wilts so quickly, it cannot be cut, transported, or sold — this adds to its rarity and mystique. 11
- Unique Symbolism: In places like Sri Lanka, the Kadupul flower is deeply revered — symbolizing purity, spirituality, the impermanence of life, beauty, and fleeting moments. 12
Ideal Soil & Potting Conditions
Because Kadupul is naturally epiphytic (growing on trees), its “soil” needs differ from typical ground plants. For cultivation:
- Use a well‑draining, airy potting medium rich in organic material — similar to mixes used for orchids or other epiphytes. Many growers use mixes containing peat, sphagnum moss, bark chips, and perlite. 13
- If planted in a pot or soil, ensure excellent drainage — waterlogging will cause root rot. 14
- Because of its epiphytic nature, it's acceptable (and often ideal) to mount the plant on bark or wood, or grow it in a loose, airy soil mix rather than dense garden soil. 15
Climate, Light & Temperature Requirements
To mimic the tropical rainforest conditions Kadupul thrives in, consider the following climate requirements:
- Temperature: Prefers warm, stable temperatures. In cultivation, it does not tolerate temperatures below about 10 °C (50 °F). Optimal growth typically occurs between ~20 °C and ~30 °C (68–86 °F). 16
- Humidity: High humidity is beneficial — the plant thrives in moist, humid air typical of tropical rainforests. 17
- Light: Bright but indirect light is ideal. Direct, harsh sunlight can scorch the stems and inhibit flowering. Semi‑shade or filtered light mimics its natural forest canopy habitat. 18
- Avoid Extremes: The plant does not do well under frost, sudden temperature drops, or very dry conditions (like strong air conditioning). If you live in a cooler climate, it’s better to keep it indoors during cold periods or provide warmth and humidity around it. 19
Watering & Fertilizing Guide
Watering and nutrient management must account for the plant’s epiphytic origin and sensitivity:
- During active growth (spring through summer), water regularly — but only when the top of the soil or potting medium begins to dry. Never let the plant sit in water. 20
- In cooler or less active periods (autumn / winter), reduce watering frequency. Some growers water only once a week or less, depending on humidity and temperature. 21
- Fertilize occasionally during the growing season (e.g. once a month) with a balanced, diluted fertilizer — nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium in equilibrium works well. 22
- Avoid frequent fertilizing or watering during dormancy or colder months. Over‑watering or over‑feeding can stress the plant and inhibit flowering. 23
Propagation & Growth Tips
One advantage of Kadupul (and its relative species) is that it can be propagated relatively easily:
- Stem Cuttings: You can propagate by cutting a healthy stem segment, letting it callus (dry) for a day or two, then planting in a well‑draining mix. This method is commonly used by hobby growers and nearly always successful. 24
- Avoid Moving When Buds Formed: Once buds begin to develop, avoid moving the plant — sudden changes in environment (light, temperature, humidity) may cause buds to drop and flowers to abort. 25
- Provide Moderate Support: While Kadupul can climb or drape like a vine (especially if mounted), you can also let it trail from hanging baskets or pots, or make it climb a mossy tree trunk or bark — mimicking its natural epiphytic growth. 26
Common Challenges & How to Avoid Them
Even though Kadupul is relatively easy compared to many rare tropical plants, there are a few pitfalls:
- Over‑watering / Poor Drainage: Because Kadupul’s natural roots expect airflow and drainage, soggy soil can kill it. Use a loose, airy soil mix and ensure excess water drains away. ✅
- Lack of Humidity / Dry Air: Dry indoor air (from AC or central heating) can dry out stems, inhibit growth, or prevent blooming. Using a humidifier or misting occasionally helps. ✅
- Excess Direct Sunlight: Bright midday sun can scorch the stems — avoid direct harsh sunlight; filtered light or partial shade is best. ✅
- Sudden Environment Changes: Moving the plant or changing its conditions (light, temperature, humidity) especially when buds have formed can cause bud loss. ✅
Flowering & Blooming: What to Expect
Even with perfect care, blooming remains somewhat unpredictable — part of Kadupul’s mystique. When it does bloom:
- Flowers open at night (typically 10 PM to 11 PM), fully bloom around midnight, then fade before dawn. 27
- The flower releases a powerful, sweet fragrance during its short bloom — often considered intoxicating and hauntingly beautiful. 28
- Because of the short bloom period, most people only see the bud or wilted flower — catching it at peak is rare and special. This ephemeral quality gives it a sense of magic and urgency. ✅
- Even in cultivation, flowering may be sporadic — patience is key. Some sources say blooming occurs seasonally; others say with the right conditions buds may appear several times a year. 29
Cultural & Symbolic Significance
Beyond its botanical features, Kadupul carries deep symbolic and cultural value — especially in its native regions:
- In Sri Lanka, the flower is considered sacred — often associated with spirituality, purity, and the impermanence of life. Its night‑blooming, fleeting beauty is likened to a divine gift. 30
- Because the bloom cannot be bought or preserved (it dies quickly), the Kadupul flower has no standard commercial value — its worth lies in the personal experience of witnessing it. 31
- For many enthusiasts, growing Kadupul is not just gardening — it's about patience, mindfulness, and appreciating beauty that is transient. ✅
Can You Grow Kadupul Flower Outside Its Native Habitat?
Yes — with proper care, many gardeners worldwide successfully cultivate Kadupul indoors or in greenhouses. Key considerations:
- Recreate a warm, humid environment (20–30 °C, good humidity), with bright but indirect light. ✅
- Use airy, well‑draining potting mix (peat/sphagnum, bark, perlite) or mount the plant on bark/wood to mimic epiphytic growth. ✅
- Water carefully — allow the medium to dry slightly between waterings, avoid waterlogging. ✅
- Avoid cold drafts, frost, or sudden temperature fluctuations. ✅
- Provide occasional feeding during growth season. ✅
- Be patient — blooming is unpredictable. ✅
Summary: Why Kadupul Is a Treasure for Gardeners & Nature Lovers
The Kadupul Flower is more than just a pretty bloom: it is a testament to the beauty of impermanence, a reminder that some of nature’s greatest wonders are fleeting and cannot be owned. With minimal but thoughtful care, even a gardener thousands of miles from tropical forests can cultivate a little bit of that magic at home.
Growing Kadupul teaches patience, respect for natural cycles, and appreciation for rare moments. For those who love plants, trees, and flowers — it is a profoundly rewarding journey.
Quick Reference: Kadupul Care Checklist
| Requirement | Recommended Condition |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 20–30 °C (no lower than ~10 °C) |
| Humidity | High (tropical‑like) |
| Light | Bright, indirect / partial shade |
| Soil / Medium | Well‑draining, airy mix (peat/sphagnum, bark, perlite) or mounted bark |
| Watering | When potting mix dries slightly; avoid waterlogging |
| Fertilizing | Balanced fertilizer, diluted, monthly during growth season |
| Propagation | Stem cuttings, after callus formation |
| Blooming Observation | Evening/night — open ~10–11 PM, fade by dawn |