Night Blooming Cereus, Reina de la Noche

Scientific Name: Peniocereus greggii (Engelm.) Britton & Rose
Synonym: Cereus greggii
Family: Cactaceae

Recommended Temperature Zone:
USDA: 9-10

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 20°F (-6°C)

Sun Exposure: Light shade to full sun

Origin: Arizona (USA), Sonora (Mexico), between 2,000 and 4,000 feet

Growth Habits: Grayish green stems from 1 to 10 feet (0.3 to 3 m), 0.5 to 1 inch in diameter (12 to 25 mm); 4 to 6 ribs; elliptical areoles closely set; blackish spines; 1 (or 2) centrals, 2 mm long; 6 to 9 conical radials

Watering Needs: Little to no water when established

Propagation: Cuttings, seeds

The large underground tuber can reach 100 pounds

This species is frequently called 'Arizona Queen of the Night', the real queen of the night being Selenicereus grandiflorus.
The Arizona Queen of the Night has thin stems and large underground tuber that supposedly can reach 100 pounds.

Peniocereus greggii flower and fruit, in Britton and Rose's The Cactaceae

Blooming Habits:
The strongly scented white flowers of this cactus are beautiful. They open at night in June, lasting only one night. They are often over 4 inches in diameter (10 cm). They are followed by a 3 inches long (8 cm) red-orange ovoid fruit, with black seeds.

Propagation:
Germinate the seeds between 70 and 85°F (21-30°C). They can be sown at any time of the year. The seedlings rot easily, keep in dry air and strong light. Cuttings are also very easy.