Arizona Cactus Garden

China National Botanical Garden

Dounan Flower Market

Estufa Fria

Cactus Garden Inside A Chocolate Factory: Ethel M Botanical Cactus Garden (Henderson, Nevada)

Huntington Desert Garden

Jardin des Plantes

Springs Preserve

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Volunteer Park Conservatory


Are you searching for gift ideas for someone who loves succulents? 

As a succulent lover myself, I have been collecting these gift ideas. Why? I truly love these things that I mention below. 

Forget all the tools and pots about succulents. I believe these gift ideas will make succulent lovers very happy! Not only that, they will be surprised, because these ideas are quite unique!

## Contents

## Gift a Plant
It's a no-brainer to give a succulent lover a new plant as they adore having as many plants as possible. Succulents require little care and can continue to thrive, so a succulent pot is an excellent reminder of the significance or purpose behind the gift.

Interestingly, most of my parents' succulents were gifted by their friends. When my parents proudly showed me how well the succulents were growing under their care, they also shared stories about who gifted them the plants.

![My Dad's indoor succulent garden](/assets/blog/gift-ideas-for-succulent-lovers/dad-plants.jpg)
*My Dad's indoor succulent garden. Most of the plants were gifted by friends*

## A Trip to Succulent Garden / Nursery
No matter how many plants a succulent lover has,  it's never enough for them. Why not just let them have them all? Haha. Many places specialize in growing succulents professionally. I've visited several, for example,  the [Succulent Greenhouse inside Jardin des Plantes in Paris, France](/posts/jardin-des-plantes), and the [Arizona Cactus Garden inside Stanford University](/posts/arizona-cactus-garden). 

![Arizona Cactus Garden inside Stanford University](/assets/blog/gift-ideas-for-succulent-lovers/arizona-garden.jpg)
*Cacti and Aloe Vera Inside the Arizona Garden*

I had an extraordinary experience visiting a succulent farm in Beijing, China (watch [the video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1LnDy_wBuk) here).

I've compiled [a list of places worldwide that have succulents](/category/place). You can check them out and see which ones are close to you.

Take your succulent loving friend to a place full of succulents. They will appreciate every moment of the visit.

## Succulent Legos

Of course, anything paired with Lego has an added charm. Lego offers a plant series that includes succulents, making it an ideal selection for succulent enthusiasts who are also enthusiastic Lego builders.

![Lego Succulents](/assets/blog/gift-ideas-for-succulent-lovers/lego.jpg)

Included in the set are various succulents such as an Orange Echeveria, an Aloe plant, a Lavender Echeveria, a Moon Cactus, a Ball Cactus, a Burro's Tail, and a Red Echeveria. 

[Echeveria](/posts/echeveria). Cactus. Burro's Tail. These succulent species are real. 

[Order the succulent Lego set here!](https://amzn.to/3L2dB6i)


## Succulent Crochet Kit (Amigurumi)

![Succulent Crochet Kit](/assets/blog/gift-ideas-for-succulent-lovers/amigurumi.jpg)
*[Succulent Crochet Kit (Amigurumi)](https://amzn.to/4ezTU3a)*

My daughter started to crochet and I accidently found [this succulent crochet kit (amigurumi) on Amazon](https://amzn.to/4ezTU3a). I fell in love with having such a kit immediately. 

For the crafty succulent lover, a succulent crochet kit (amigurumi) is a perfect gift. These kits include all the materials needed to crochet adorable succulent plants. The recipient can enjoy the process of creating their own handmade succulents, which will last forever without any need for watering.

What's Included in the Kit:
- Yarn in various colors to create different types of succulents
- Crochet hooks
- Stuffing material
- Detailed instructions and patterns
- A small pot to display the finished crochet succulents

Why It's a Great Gift:
- It's a fun and creative project
- The finished product is a unique and lasting decoration
- It's perfect for both beginners and experienced crocheters



## Polymer Clay Succulents

On Reddit, I stumbled upon an artist who crafts polymer clay succulents. I was amazed by their lifelike appearance, as it was difficult to distinguish them from real ones.

![Polymer Clay Succulents](/assets/blog/gift-ideas-for-succulent-lovers/polymer.jpg)
*[A beautiful arrangement by FlyBunnyStudio](https://www.inspireuplift.com/Pink-Stash-Box-With-Echeveria-Cuspidata-Var-Gemulla-Arrangement/iu/86820)*

These artificial succulents are ideal for indoor decoration as they can thrive in spaces where real succulents wouldn't survive without adequate sunlight.

Check out the [FlyBunnyStudio](https://www.inspireuplift.com/shop/FlyBunnyStudio).


-----

I hope my recommendations above can help with your gift search for your spefical someone. 

5 Unique Gift Ideas for Succulent Lovers


I love plants and memes! Let's see how these two vibe with each out! 🤣

Here are all the memes I collected from the internet over time:

### Contents

### SO TRUE 😅

![My spouse after leaving me unattended in the plant store](/assets/blog/meme-ingful-plants-the-best-plant-memes-we-could-dig-up/plant-store.jpg)
*Source: [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/succulents/comments/ft89l1/so_true/)*

### Vibe 🥹

![plants rlly be like 'I do not vibe with this dirt' and die](/assets/blog/meme-ingful-plants-the-best-plant-memes-we-could-dig-up/vibe.jpg)
*Source: [Twitter](https://twitter.com/01000010inary/status/1250113249032503298)*

### From introvert to extra extrovert 🤣

![Introverted but willing to discuss plants.](/assets/blog/meme-ingful-plants-the-best-plant-memes-we-could-dig-up/tshirt.jpg)
*Source: [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/funny/comments/b5oekv/introverted_but_willing_to_discuss_plants/)*

### Can you relate? 🤣

![Houseplants: “you watered me on Sunday versus Saturday so now I must die”](/assets/blog/meme-ingful-plants-the-best-plant-memes-we-could-dig-up/water-plants.png)
*Source: [Twitter](https://twitter.com/ashleymayer/status/1122557332959965186)*

### Every single time 😁

![Me *takes a cutting*](/assets/blog/meme-ingful-plants-the-best-plant-memes-we-could-dig-up/cutting.jpg)
*Source: [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/succulents/comments/hch8tz/every_single_time/)*


### IYKYK 🤣

![What my plants see when I check if any new babies are comming in.](/assets/blog/meme-ingful-plants-the-best-plant-memes-we-could-dig-up/checking.jpg)
*Source: [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/houseplants/comments/127yf7q/_/)*

### When someone asks me why I have so many succulents
![When someone asks me why I have so many succulents](/assets/blog/meme-ingful-plants-the-best-plant-memes-we-could-dig-up/neglect-succulents.jpg)
*Source: [Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/succulents/comments/7wsaum/when_someone_asks_me_why_i_have_so_many_succulents/)*

### My husband can relate!

![wife-buying-plants.jpg](/assets/blog/meme-ingful-plants-the-best-plant-memes-we-could-dig-up/wife-buying-plants.jpg)

The Best Plant Memes On the Internet


Are you new to succulents? Confused by the jargon used by succulent enthusiasts? Don't worry! This article is for you. I will explain them to you. 

Here are a list of common terms that people mention about succulents.

### Butt ###
It refers to Lithops, a type of succulents, whose apparance looks like a human butt. Yes, it is a funny name, and may be NSFW. 🤣 

Some people also think it looks like a human brain.

![Lithops with looks of human butts](/assets/blog/terms-that-you-should-know-for-growing-succulents/lithops-butt.jpg)
*Do lithops look like butts?*

### Clay Pots ###

A type of pot that is made from clay. Clay pots are commonly used for growing succulents, due to the material's porous nature that regulates soil moisture and prevent over-watering. 

### Cutting ###
A piece of a succulent plant that is cut and used to propagate a new plant. Succulent cuttings are often taken from the stem or leaves of the parent plant, and can be planted in soil or water to develop roots and grow into a new plant.

### Drainage ###
The movement of water through soil, affecting soil aeration and root growth. Most succulents prefer great drainage.

### Dormancy ###
A period of reduced growth or inactivity in a plant, typically during the winter months. During the dormancy, no need to water the succulents.

### Elongate ###
The process of growth and increase in length of stems and leaves, leading to a stretching or lanky appearance. It is caused by insufficient light, improper watering, or high humidity.

Elongation is often an undesired characteristic, as it makes succulents look different from their typical compact looks.

### Offset ###
A small plant that has developed as a vegetative reproduction from a parent plant. It is a clone of the parent plant and often appears as a rosette at the base of the stem or as offsets along the sides of the stem. 

It is also called a pup.

### Pests ###
Organisms that cause harm to plants, such as insects, fungi, and mammals. The most common pests for succulents are mealy bugs. 😱

### Plump ###
An adjective to describe the appearance of the leaves or stems of the plant: full, round, and well-hydrated. This is a desirable characteristic in succulents, as it indicates that the plant is healthy and thriving.


### Propagation ###
The process of producing new plants from existing ones, usually through cuttings or seeds. In another word, propagation is how you make more plants from one plant! 😉

![Propagation with leaf cuttings](/assets/blog/terms-that-you-should-know-for-growing-succulents/propagation.jpg)
*Propagation with leaf cuttings*

### Pumice ###
A type of porous rock that is often used as an ingredient in potting mix or soil. Pumice is valued for its light weight and porous nature, which allows for good aeration and water drainage. So it is perfect for succulent plants.

### Pup ###
A small plant that has developed as a vegetative reproduction from a parent plant. It is a clone of the parent plant and often appears as a rosette at the base of the stem or as offsets along the sides of the stem. 

It is also called an offset.

Succulent pups can be detached from the parent plant and planted individually to form new plants. This is one of the ways to propagate.

![Echeveria fabiola with a pup](/assets/blog/terms-that-you-should-know-for-growing-succulents/echeveria-with-a-pup.jpg)
*Echeveria fabiola with a pup*

### Repotting ### 
The process of transferring a plant to a larger pot, usually when it has outgrown its current container. You usually need to repot your succulents when the root system is too big for the pot.

### Rosette ### 
A circular arrangement of leaves in a plant, often in a symmetrical pattern. 

### Soil ###

The material in which plants grow, consisting of organic matter, minerals, and microorganisms.


Terms That You Should Know For Growing Succulents

<p>Are you looking for crochet succulent ideas? If so, you've come to the right place!</p>
<p>If succulents have been hard to grow, you might be interested in these crochet succulent ideas.</p>
<p>In this article, we'll explore some creative crochet amigurumi succulent ideas.</p>
<h2 id="contents"><a href="#contents" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><span class="icon icon-link"></span></a>Contents</h2>
<ol>
<li><a href="#kit-beginner-crochet-patterns-from-amazon">Kit: Beginner Crochet Patterns from Amazon</a></li>
<li><a href="#website-planet-june">Website: Planet June</a></li>
<li><a href="#book-crocheted-succulents">Book: Crocheted Succulents</a></li>
<li><a href="#kit-woobles-crochet">Kit: Woobles Crochet</a></li>
<li><a href="#conclusion">Conclusion</a></li>
</ol>
<h2 id="kit-beginner-crochet-patterns-from-amazon"><a href="#kit-beginner-crochet-patterns-from-amazon" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><span class="icon icon-link"></span></a>Kit: Beginner Crochet Patterns from Amazon</h2>
<p>My first ever crochet pattern was <a href="https://amzn.to/4iorrjB">a succulent pattern from Amazon</a>. I was so excited to find a crochet pattern for a succulent that I could grow indoors.</p>
<p><img src="/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/amazon.png" alt="Succulent Crochet Pattern">
<em><a href="https://amzn.to/4iorrjB">The kit I bought from Amazon</a></em></p>
<p>This kit is a great way to get started with crochet succulents. It has two pamphlets: one for the basic crochet stitches and one for the succulent patterns. From the kit, I got to learn the basic crochet stitches: single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet, magic loop!</p>
<p>Check out my first succulent crochet pattern using this kit!</p>
<p><img src="/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/amazon-my-work.jpg" alt="My Work">
<em>My first succulent crochet pattern</em></p>
<h2 id="website-planet-june"><a href="#website-planet-june" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><span class="icon icon-link"></span></a>Website: Planet June</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.planetjune.com/">Planet June</a> is a crochet pattern shop that sells crochet patterns for amigurumi and other crochet projects. I found the crocheter June also has <a href="https://www.planetjune.com/blog/succulent-collection-crochet-patterns/">patterns for succulents</a>.</p>
<p><img src="/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/planetjune.png" alt="Planet June"></p>
<h2 id="book-crocheted-succulents"><a href="#book-crocheted-succulents" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><span class="icon icon-link"></span></a>Book: Crocheted Succulents</h2>
<p>I also found a book called <a href="https://amzn.to/4f2deWB">Crocheted Succulents</a>. This book has 25 crochet patterns for succulents.</p>
<p><img src="/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/crocheted-succulent.jpg" alt="Book: Crocheted Succulents">
<em>The book</em></p>
<p><img src="/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/small-leaf.jpg" alt="Small cactus leaf pattern from the book">
<em>A small cactus leaf pattern from the book</em></p>
<h2 id="kit-woobles-crochet"><a href="#kit-woobles-crochet" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><span class="icon icon-link"></span></a>Kit: Woobles Crochet</h2>
<p>Woobles Crochet is a crochet pattern shop that sells crochet patterns for amigurumi and other crochet projects. I love Woobles, because they are designed to be beginner-friendly. The yarns are high quality and easy to work with. They are also a little expensive.</p>
<p>They have <a href="https://thewoobles.com/products/prickle-your-fancy-bundle">succulent patterns</a>.</p>
<p><img src="/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/woobles.png" alt="Woobles">
<em>The Woobles shop</em></p>
<h2 id="conclusion"><a href="#conclusion" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><span class="icon icon-link"></span></a>Conclusion</h2>
<p>I hope you found this article helpful! If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. Also, if you have any crochet succulent ideas, please share them with me!</p>


Crochet Succulent Ideas


![Hoodia gordonii on rock](/assets/blog/hoodia-gordonii/hoodia-gordonii-on-rock.jpg)
*Hoodia gordonii on rock.*

Hoodia Gordonii is a succulent plant native to the Kalahari Desert of southern Africa. For centuries, indigenous San people have used this remarkable plant as a natural appetite suppressant during long hunting expeditions. The plant's ability to suppress hunger and thirst has made it a subject of interest in modern weight management research.

## Quick Facts

- **Native Habitat**: Botswana, South Africa and Namibia
- **Family**: Apocynaceae
- **Water**: Low
- **Sunlight**: Full sun
- **Soil**: Well-draining cactus mix

## Contents

## Why it is called Hoodia Gordonii?

Hoodia Gordonii is named after the San people of South Africa, who have used the plant for centuries for its appetite-suppressing properties.

## The Appearance of Hoodia Gordonii

### Leaves

Hoodia Gordonii has thick, fleshy leaves that are typically green to grey-green in color.

### Flowers

![Hoodia gordonii in bloom](/assets/blog/hoodia-gordonii/hoodia-gordonii-flowers.jpg)
*Hoodia gordonii in bloom.*

The flowers are star-shaped and can be purple or brown, often resembling a corpse flower.

![Hoodia gordonii before bloom](/assets/blog/hoodia-gordonii/hoodia-gordonii-before-bloom.jpg)
*Hoodia gordonii is such a striking plant, even before it blooms—the OG Ozempic. (Just kidding! Please don’t eat my hoodias. Even though Google seems fixated on its hunger-quelling reputation, it’s best enjoyed for its beauty and fragrant flowers.)*

## How to Care for Hoodia Gordonii

### Light

Hoodia requires full sunlight for optimal growth.

### Watering

Hoodia can survive with minimal water but still requires some for healthy growth. Underwatering can lead to wilting and brown spots, while overwatering can cause root rot. Many people mistakenly overwater their plants, thinking they are not providing enough moisture.
To maintain a healthy plant, water only when the soil is completely dry, soaking the soil thoroughly and allowing it to dry out again before the next watering.

### Soil

Choosing the right soil for your Namib desert plant is essential—think of it like finding the perfect outfit for a special occasion! To ensure your plant thrives, use [a specialized succulent potting mix](https://amzn.to/41eL9rQ). It’s crafted with five natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to support strong root development and healthy growth.


### Temperature

Ideal temperatures range from 70°F to 100°F (21°C to 38°C).

### Humidity

Hoodia prefers low humidity environments.

### Fertilizing

When fertilizing hoodia, less is more. Over-fertilizing can make the plant leggy and weak. A small dose of NPK fertilizer in spring, around 5-10-5 with more phosphorus than nitrogen, is perfect for supporting healthy growth. Opt for a natural fertilizer for the best results.

### Pruning

Prune dead or damaged leaves to promote healthy growth.

### Repotting

Repot every few years or when the plant outgrows its container.

### Dormancy

Hoodia goes dormant in the winter; reduce watering during this time.

### Pests and Diseases

Watch for mealybugs and root rot; treat promptly if detected.

## Is Hoodia Gordonii Toxic to Pets?

Hoodia Gordonii is considered non-toxic to pets.

## How to Propagate Hoodia Gordonii

Propagation is typically done through cuttings or seeds.

## Where Can I Buy Hoodia Gordonii?

Hoodia can be purchased at specialty plant nurseries or online.

## FAQ

- **Q: How often should I water Hoodia Gordonii?**
  - A: Water only when the soil is completely dry.

- **Q: How do you use Hoodia Gordonii?**
  - A: Hoodia is typically used as a supplement in capsule or tablet form, to suppress appetite.


Kalahari Cactus 'Hoodia gordonii'


Are you looking for crochet succulent ideas? If so, you've come to the right place! 

If succulents have been hard to grow, you might be interested in these crochet succulent ideas.

In this article, we'll explore some creative crochet amigurumi succulent ideas.

## Contents

## Kit: Beginner Crochet Patterns from Amazon

My first ever crochet pattern was [a succulent pattern from Amazon](https://amzn.to/4iorrjB). I was so excited to find a crochet pattern for a succulent that I could grow indoors.

![Succulent Crochet Pattern](/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/amazon.png)
*[The kit I bought from Amazon](https://amzn.to/4iorrjB)*

This kit is a great way to get started with crochet succulents. It has two pamphlets: one for the basic crochet stitches and one for the succulent patterns. From the kit, I got to learn the basic crochet stitches: single crochet, half double crochet, and double crochet, magic loop!

Check out my first succulent crochet pattern using this kit!

![My Work](/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/amazon-my-work.jpg)
*My first succulent crochet pattern*

## Website: Planet June

[Planet June](https://www.planetjune.com/) is a crochet pattern shop that sells crochet patterns for amigurumi and other crochet projects. I found the crocheter June also has [patterns for succulents](https://www.planetjune.com/blog/succulent-collection-crochet-patterns/).

![Planet June](/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/planetjune.png)

## Book: Crocheted Succulents

I also found a book called [Crocheted Succulents](https://amzn.to/4f2deWB). This book has 25 crochet patterns for succulents.

![Book: Crocheted Succulents](/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/crocheted-succulent.jpg)
*The book*

![Small cactus leaf pattern from the book](/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/small-leaf.jpg)
*A small cactus leaf pattern from the book*

## Kit: Woobles Crochet

Woobles Crochet is a crochet pattern shop that sells crochet patterns for amigurumi and other crochet projects. I love Woobles, because they are designed to be beginner-friendly. The yarns are high quality and easy to work with. They are also a little expensive.

They have [succulent patterns](https://thewoobles.com/products/prickle-your-fancy-bundle).

![Woobles](/assets/blog/crochet-succulent-ideas/woobles.png)
*The Woobles shop*

## Conclusion

I hope you found this article helpful! If you have any questions, please leave a comment below. Also, if you have any crochet succulent ideas, please share them with me!

In September 2024, I took my parents on a trip to Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan Province, China. As part of our trip, we visited the Dounan Flower Market (斗南花卉市场), the largest flower market in Asia! An interesting fact about Yunnan is that its climate is perfect for cultivation, making Kunming home to the largest flower and succulent market in the world!

The market occupies a gigantic warehouse. The first floor featured an impressive array of flowers, including roses, orchids, and bonsai. I was amazed. However, when we reached the second floor, my jaw literally dropped.

Having visited succulent markets around the world, I can say that Dounan is on a whole different level. It dwarfs any other place I’ve been to, both in terms of size and variety. The sheer scale, number of merchants, and range of succulents were truly astounding. Even more incredible was the price—sometimes as low as 10 RMB (1.5 USD) for six pots of succulents!

Below are some photos I took at Dounan. Enjoy!

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 1](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-1.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 2](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-2.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 3](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-3.jpg)
*The sign says, "10 RMB (1.5 USD) for six pots of succulents"*

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 4](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-4.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 5](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-5.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 6](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-6.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 7](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-7.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 9](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-9.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 10](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-10.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 11](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-11.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 12](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-12.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 13](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-13.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 14](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-14.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 15](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-15.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 16](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-16.jpg)

![Succulents at Dounan Flower Market 17](/assets/blog/dounan-biggest-succulent-market/photo-17.jpg)


Dounan Flower Market: Biggest Succulent Market in the World


![Epiphyllum Oxypetalum (Queen of the Night)](/assets/blog/epiphyllum-oxypetalum/tan-hua.jpeg)

Epiphyllum oxypetalum, also known as Dutchman's pipe cactus, Princess of the Night, or Queen of the Night, is a cactus species native to Mexico and Nicaragua. It is a tropical epiphyte to lithophyte, meaning it grows on the surface of other plants and derives nutrients from rain, air, and debris. This cactus blooms nocturnally, with flowers that wilt before dawn, and is the most cultivated species in its genus.

## Quick Facts

- **Native Habitat**: Mexico, Nicaragua
- **Family**: Cactaceae
- **Water**: Soak the soil completely when watering and water frequently, letting the top of the soil dry out between watering.
- **Sunlight**: Partial shade or bright, indirect light
- **Soil**: Well-draining, average succulent/cactus soil mix

## Contents

## Why it is called Epiphyllum oxypetalum?

The name "Epiphyllum oxypetalum" comes from Greek and Latin roots. "Epiphyllum" is derived from the Greek words "epi-" meaning "upon" and "phullon" meaning "leaf," referring to the plant's habit of growing on other plants. "Oxypetalum" is from the Greek "oxy-" meaning "sharp" or "acute" and "petalum" meaning "petal," referring to the shape of its petals.

The Chinese name for the plant is 昙花 (tan hua). It is sometimes referred to by this name, particularly as mentioned in the popular movie based on the book *Crazy Rich Asians*. 


![Epiphyllum oxypetalum is featured in a scene from the movie Crazy Rich Asians.](/assets/blog/epiphyllum-oxypetalum/crazy-rich-asians-flower.jpg)
*Epiphyllum oxypetalum is featured in a scene from the movie Crazy Rich Asians.*

![Epiphyllum oxypetalum is featured in a scene from the movie Crazy Rich Asians.](/assets/blog/epiphyllum-oxypetalum/movie-flower.jpg)
*Epiphyllum oxypetalum is featured in a scene from the movie Crazy Rich Asians.*

In Chinese, there is a phrase called 昙花一现 (tán huā yī xiàn), meaning "a fleeting glimpse of a flower" or "something that is beautiful but short-lived." This phrase is often used to describe something that appears briefly and then disappears, much like the night-blooming flowers of the Queen of the Night cactus.

## The Appearance of Epiphyllum oxypetalum

### Leaves

![Leaves of Epiphyllum Oxypetalum](/assets/blog/epiphyllum-oxypetalum/flowers-and-leaves.jpg)

There are no true leaves, but flattened stems that can be easily rooted.

### Flowers

The Queen of the Night is a night-blooming cactus that blooms once per year, reaching full bloom around midnight and typically lasting only that one night. The flowers are white, huge, showy, and fragrant. If pollinated, the flowers are followed by 5-inch long, oblong, purple/red fruits. A mature plant can produce flowers from spring through mid-summer.

This behavior is an example of a [**pollination syndrome**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pollination_syndrome).

A **pollination syndrome** occurs when a plant co-evolves with its primary pollinators in a way that increases the likelihood of successful pollination. The Queen of the Night’s main pollinators are bats, which explains why it blooms at night when its pollinators are active. The large, white, disc-shaped flowers are more attractive to bats. Interestingly, multiple plants bloom on the same night each year, though it is not known how this synchronization occurs.

The flowers grow on flattened stems and are up to 30 cm (12 in) long and 17 cm (7 in) wide.

## How to Care for Epiphyllum oxypetalum

### Light

Give this plant partial shade or bright, indirect light.

### Watering

Soak the soil completely when watering and water frequently, letting the top of the soil dry out between watering. Cut down on watering during the winter to 1-2 times per month.

### Soil

Provide a well-draining, average succulent/cactus soil mix.

### Temperature

Bring inside when temperatures cool to the mid-30s. It can be grown as an outdoor tropical plant in zones 10 and 11. In cooler zones, it can be placed outdoors during the summer months, then brought in as the temperatures drop.

### Humidity

Ensure moderate humidity levels typical of rainforest settings.

### Fertilizing

Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.

### Pruning

Trim the long stems back if the plant becomes top-heavy, ensuring stability in its container.

### Repotting

Repot into a larger or heavier container as needed to maintain stability.

### Dormancy

Reduce watering in winter to 1-2 times per month.

### Pests and Diseases

Watch for common pests like mealybugs and aphids. Treat as necessary with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

## Is Epiphyllum oxypetalum Toxic to Pets?

Epiphyllum oxypetalum is generally considered non-toxic to pets.

## How to Propagate Epiphyllum oxypetalum

Propagate by taking stem cuttings, allowing them to dry for a day or two, then planting in a well-draining soil mix.

## Where Can I Buy Epiphyllum oxypetalum?

Epiphyllum oxypetalum can be purchased from various online plant retailers, specialty cactus and succulent nurseries, and sometimes at local garden centers.

## FAQ

### How often does Epiphyllum oxypetalum bloom?

**A:** It typically blooms from spring through mid-summer, with flowers opening only once, at night, and lasting only that one night.

### Can Epiphyllum oxypetalum be grown indoors?

**A:** Yes, it can be grown indoors in a bright, indirect light setting.

### Is Epiphyllum oxypetalum edible?
**A:** Epiphyllum oxypetalum is edible and has medicinal uses. In various Asian cultures, including India, Vietnam, and Malaysia, it is used to treat respiratory issues, bleeding conditions, and is believed to help reduce pain and inflammation.

## References

* [North Carolina State University - Epiphyllum oxypetalum](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/epiphyllum-oxypetalum/)
* [RWW Greenhouse - The Queen of the Night](https://rwwgreenhouse.voices.wooster.edu/the-queen-of-the-night/)
* [Wikipedia - Epiphyllum oxypetalum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epiphyllum_oxypetalum)


Epiphyllum Oxypetalum (Queen of the Night)


## Quick Facts
* **Location**: The room of Estufa Doce of Estufa Fria, inside Parque Eduardo VII, Lisbon, Portugal
* **Hours**: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Winter), 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM (Summer)
* **Cost**: Approximately 3 Euros
* **Kid Friendly**: Yes
* **Dog Allowed**: No
* **Accessibility**: Yes

## Contents

## About Estufa Fria and Estufa Doce

Estufa Fria is a beautiful greenhouse complex located in Parque Eduardo VII in Lisbon, Portugal. It consists of three different environments: 

* Cold Greenhouse (Estufa Fria)
* Hot Greenhouse (Estufa Quente)
* Sweet Greenhouse (*Estufa Doce*)

Estufa Quente and Estufa Doce bring more exotic plants to Lisbon (mangifera, cacti, aloe), whereas the main garden focuses on camellia and azalea species. The three gardens cover a surface area of 3.7 acres! Each showcases a variety of plants from different climates. 

Out of the three sections, Estufa Doce can be seen as the smallest. It transposes you to a desert filled with all types of tall cacti and aloe plants. The trek is short, but it does really make you feel small and lost through some desert riddled with nature.

Note, when you are on the ground floor of the greenhouse, it may be hard to find the entrance to Estufa Doce. There is a ramp on the wall leading to Estufa Doce, which is located on a higher level of the greenhouse.


## Visiting Estufa Fria in 2024

I visited Estufa Fria in July 2024 while visiting Lisbon. Parque Eduardo VII is a quiet and spacious park without much tourism, and Estufa Fria is at a corner of Parque Eduardo VII.

![Crinum Moorei](/assets/blog/estufa-fria-lisbon/crinum-moorei.jpg)
*Crinum Moorei, aka Natal Lily, I discovered in Estufa Fria. They are so beautiful*

As I enjoy many kinds of plants, succulents have always been the ones I wanted to see the most. The common succulents like aloes and cacti are arranged in captivating ways, such as being displayed on the wall.

![Estufa Fria](/assets/blog/estufa-fria-lisbon/main-view.jpg)

To my disappointment, there were no Living Stones in this greenhouse, like Lithops or Conophytum.

![Aloe](/assets/blog/estufa-fria-lisbon/aloe.jpg)
*Aloe*

![Crown of Thorns](/assets/blog/estufa-fria-lisbon/crown-of-thorns.jpg)
*Crown of Thorns (Euphorbia milii)*

![Pachypodium](/assets/blog/estufa-fria-lisbon/pachypodium.jpg)
*Pachypodium*

![Crown of Thorns](/assets/blog/estufa-fria-lisbon/crown-of-thorns-2.jpg)
*Crown of Thorns*

![Cereus](/assets/blog/estufa-fria-lisbon/cereus.jpg)
*Cereus*

## Conclusion

Estufa Fria is a pretty cool place to visit. The atmosphere is great for dating, meeting friends, and taking photos. Although Estufa Doce has lots of succulents, the lack of the rosette-type succulents (such as Echeveria) and living stones (such as Lithops) may disappoint succulent enthusiasts.

Crochet Succulent Ideas

Contents

Kit: Beginner Crochet Patterns from Amazon

Website: Planet June

Book: Crocheted Succulents

Kit: Woobles Crochet

Conclusion

Grace

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