Hylocereus undatus, Night blooming Cereus, Queen of the Night

On the way home from grandma's house along Indian River Dr I passed several palm trees that were covered with this blooming cactus. The Hylocereus undatus, or commonly called Night blooming Cereus, and Queen of the Night, is snake-like, night-blooming cactus that is very fast-growing and a climber that can reach as high as 50 or even 60 feet. It is a very interesting but possibly an invasive cactus for that reason and should possibly be kept under control as it is often a rapid grower that may climb and smother even tall trees as high as 50 feet. However, it is a great cactus to grow because it is so fast-growing and the white flowers are very beautiful - especiallly when they bloom at night. It may get as many as 20 flowers or more possibly all at the same time! Here are a few pictures from the fully engulfed palm tree.