The Epiphyllum oxypetalum, commonly known as the Queen of the Night, is a night-blooming tropical epiphyte, an organism that grows on the surface of another plant and derives its moisture and nutrients from the air, rain, water (in marine environments), or from debris accumulating around it. It has huge, showy, and very fragrant white flowers that open only at night.
In June 2019 we rented an older beach house near the Mantanzas Inlet and in its beautiful gardens we discovered a large mature Queen of the Night nestled in the boots of a sable palm. Heeding the call of plant propagation, Susan took a clipping.
A few days ago, Susan realized that her Queen was getting ready to bloom. Last night, following an afternoon thunderstorm, its four flowers opened. Here’s a few photos and a set of haiku inspired by a magical night. (Disclaimer: While everything related below occurred last night, I invoke artistic license to include a few earlier photos).
I .
The tree frogs at dusk
Fearful of the night alone,
Ply their songs of love.
II.
A soft breeze rustles
Through the branches of the pine,
Kissed by full moon’s light.
III.
Another year past.
Our shy Queen welcomes this night
The mid-summer moon.
IV.
The Queen of the Night
Invites the moth’s soft caress,
Petals open wide.
V.
Distant lightning flash.
Cicada tymbals vibrate
Through the sultry air.
VI.
A cracker barred owl,
Obscure in the live oak, asks,
“Who cooks for you ’all?”
VII.
Early morning light.
The Queen nestles in her robes
And folds into sleep.
Phillip E. Wegner 