Ever heard of a flower that blooms in the dark and vanishes before sunrise? Meet the Kadupul flower, also lovingly called the Queen of the Night. It’s one of nature’s most magical blooms—rare, mysterious, and absolutely unforgettable.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just curious about unique flowers, the story of the Kadupul will leave you fascinated. So, let’s dive in and explore this nocturnal beauty.
What is the Kadupul Flower?
Let’s start with the basics. The Kadupul flower (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) is a type of cactus, even though it doesn’t look like your typical thorny desert plant. It’s native to Sri Lanka but can be found in parts of Southeast Asia and even Kadupul flower in India, especially in southern regions with warm, humid climates.
This flower is famous not just for its beauty, but for its very short lifespan. It blooms at night and wilts before dawn, making it an incredibly rare sight. Because of this brief appearance, it’s sometimes called “the flower that can’t be bought.”
Why is it Called the Queen of the Night?
Here’s where things get really interesting. The Kadupul’s other name, Queen of the Night flower, comes from its blooming habit. It opens up only at night, usually after 10 PM, and releases a strong, sweet fragrance that fills the air. By early morning, it’s gone. This enchanting ritual adds to its mystique and has made it a symbol of fleeting beauty.
If you’re lucky enough to witness this bloom, consider it a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
Kadupul Flower Blooming Time
Timing is everything with this flower. The kadupul flower blooming time generally falls between late spring and summer, though it can vary depending on climate. In India, you might spot it blooming between May and July.
The bloom lasts only a few hours, usually starting around 10 PM and ending by 3 or 4 AM. So if you’re growing one at home, keep your camera ready. This isn’t a flower that waits around.
Fascinating Kadupul Flower Facts
This flower is full of surprises. Here are a few kadupul flower facts that make it truly special:
- It’s considered one of the most expensive flowers in the world, not because of its price tag (you can’t actually buy it), but because of its rarity.
- The flower is associated with spiritual meanings in Buddhist culture and is often seen as a symbol of selflessness.
- It’s extremely delicate, and even a slight touch can cause the petals to fall apart.
- Despite being part of the cactus family, it doesn’t have sharp spines and thrives in shady areas.
If you’re someone who enjoys discovering rare blooms, you might also enjoy learning about the sampangi flower, which has its own unique charm and aroma.
Kadupul Flower Perfume: What Does It Smell Like?
Let’s talk fragrance. The kadupul flower perfume is sweet, floral, and incredibly calming. Some describe it as a mix between jasmine and tuberose with a subtle tropical note. While the flower itself is too delicate to be harvested for perfumes, its scent has inspired many synthetic versions.
If you’re a fan of fragrant gardens, planting a Marikolunthu Plant nearby can enhance the experience, as it also gives off a lovely herbal aroma.
How to Grow Kadupul Flower at Home
Thinking of growing your own kadupul flower plant? It’s totally possible, but there are a few things to keep in mind.
How to grow Kadupul flower: Tips for Beginners
- Climate: This plant prefers warm, humid environments. It’s ideal for tropical and subtropical zones.
- Light: It loves bright but indirect sunlight. Direct sun can scorch the leaves.
- Soil: Use well-draining cactus mix or a combo of garden soil, sand, and compost.
- Watering: Keep the soil slightly moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Container: A hanging pot or wall planter works well since it’s a type of epiphyte and enjoys some air circulation around its roots.
Once established, the queen of the night plant doesn’t need much fuss. Just remember to be patient—it might take a few seasons before it blesses you with a bloom.
For flower lovers who enjoy delicate textures, you might also be interested in the Gypsophila Flower Plant, known for its cloud-like white blooms.
Can You Grow Kadupul Flower from Seeds?
Here’s a common question: Kadupul flower seeds—do they even exist? Technically, yes, the plant produces seeds, but growing from seeds is a long and challenging process. Most home gardeners prefer growing it through cuttings, which are more reliable and quicker.
If you’re up for the challenge, go ahead and try germinating seeds, but be prepared for a long wait. You might find it easier to get a cutting from someone who already grows this elusive beauty.
By the way, if you’re looking to make your balcony or garden more secure and pet-friendly while growing exotic plants, consider installing an Invisible Grill. It adds protection without ruining your view.
Queen of the Night Flower Care Tips
Once your plant is settled in, caring for the queen of the night flower is pretty simple.
Queen of the Night Flower Care Routine
- Fertilize monthly during the growing season using a diluted liquid fertilizer.
- Prune any dry or damaged stems to encourage new growth.
- Watch for pests like mealybugs and spider mites. A neem oil spray can help keep them at bay.
- During winter, cut back on watering and keep the plant indoors if your area gets chilly.
With a little love, your queen of the night plant will reward you with its breathtaking blooms—just don’t blink, or you might miss it.
If you enjoy exploring unique plant varieties, you’ll also love the vivid colors of the Gomphrena Plant and the tropical beauty of the Coconut Flower.
Final Thoughts:
The Kadupul flower isn’t just a plant. It’s a story, a mystery, and a once-in-a-blue-moon spectacle. From its dramatic midnight bloom to its ghost-like disappearance at dawn, it captures something we rarely see in nature—pure, fleeting magic. Whether you’re a casual plant lover or a full-blown gardening geek, adding the Kadupul to your green space is sure to make your plant journey even more meaningful.
And if you’re interested in adding more water-loving blooms to your garden, don’t miss the dreamy beauty of the Kumudini phool—a perfect companion to this nighttime queen.
