A royal spritz
Some in South Louisiana celebrate the bloom of a somewhat rare flower.
Queen of the Night blooms bring excitement and, for those lucky enough to have one, the perfect excuse for a watch party.
The plant seen here bloomed this week. It flowers occasionally during spring and summer, but only for a few hours late at night. The event is rare enough to have inspired a tradition in South Louisiana, where some plant owners invite friends and neighbors over to watch. The flower opens over several hours, leaving plenty of time to enjoy snacks and cocktails while waiting for the show.
Several night-blooming cacti share the name “Queen of the Night.” Native to the jungles of Central and South America, they can thrive in Baton Rouge with relatively little care. They prefer small amounts of water and a pot that keeps them slightly rootbound. Some varieties are intensely fragrant, helping attract the bats and moths that pollinate their flowers.
Want to host your own Queen of the Night party next year? Plants are available at Baton Rouge Succulent Company.
