9 Flowers That Bloom Only At Night And Their Hidden Beauty

While most flowers brighten the day, some wait until the sun sets to show beauty. These flowers that bloom only at night are nature’s little secrets, revealing their delicate petals in the moonlight. Some are fragrant, some are mysterious, and all are enchanting. 

Whether you're a night owl or just curious about these nocturnal wonders, here are nine flowers that only bloom after dark.

1. Moonflower (Ipomoea alba)

The moonflower is a stunning night bloomer with large, trumpet-shaped white flowers that open just after sunset. It belongs to the same family as morning glories, but unlike its daytime relative, moonflowers wait for the cooler evening air before unfurling their delicate petals. 

Their fragrance is sweet and intoxicating, attracting moths and other nocturnal pollinators. These flowers thrive in warm climates and grow best on trellises or fences, making them perfect for vertical gardens.

2. Night-Blooming Jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum)

This flower is often mistaken for the common jasmine, but it’s unique in that it only releases its powerful fragrance at night. Its small, creamy-white tubular flowers may not look impressive during the day, but once the sun sets, they emit one of the strongest floral scents found in nature. 

This plant grows as a shrub and flourishes in warm, humid conditions. Because of its intense aroma, it’s often planted near windows or patios, so the scent can drift indoors in the evening.

3. Queen Of The Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum)

The Queen of the Night is a rare, fast-growing cactus that produces large, white flowers that bloom for just one night each year. The bloom starts to open in the late evening and fully blossoms by midnight, filling the air with a rich, sweet fragrance. 

By morning, the petals wither, making each bloom a fleeting but unforgettable event. This plant is often associated with good fortune and is commonly grown in pots or hanging baskets due to its cascading stems.

4. Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)

Known for its vibrant yellow flowers, evening primrose is one of the most well-known night bloomers. As dusk approaches, the delicate petals slowly unfurl, revealing a golden glow that lasts until morning. This flower isn’t just admired for its beauty—it has medicinal properties and is used in herbal remedies for skin conditions and hormonal balance. 

Evening primroses are easy to grow and often found in meadows or garden beds, adding a splash of colour to moonlit landscapes.

5. Night-Scented Stock (Matthiola longipetala)

Although this flower may not be as visually striking as some others on the list, its fragrance more than makes up for it. Night-scented stock produces clusters of small, delicate purple or pale pink flowers that remain closed during the day. 

The petals open as soon as evening falls, releasing a sweet, clove-like scent that attracts night-flying insects. It’s a favourite among gardeners who want to add an element of fragrance to their nighttime outdoor spaces.

6. Brahma Kamal (Saussurea obvallata)

A flower of spiritual and cultural significance, the Brahma Kamal is native to the Himalayas and is believed to bring good luck. Its large, white blooms emerge at high altitudes, usually during the monsoon season, and remain open for just a few hours at night. 

The flower is named after Lord Brahma, a Hindu deity, and is often associated with divine blessings. Due to its rarity and unique blooming habit, it’s one of the most treasured night-blooming flowers in the world.

7. Four O’Clock Flower (Mirabilis jalapa)

The Four O’Clock Flower gets its name because it typically starts opening in the late afternoon and stays open all night. Available in a variety of colours, including pink, yellow, white, and red, these trumpet-shaped flowers close again when the sun rises. 

What makes them unique is that a single plant can produce flowers of different colours, creating a striking contrast in the garden. They are easy to grow from seeds and thrive in warm, well-drained soil.

8. Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus (Epiphyllum hookeri)

This rare cactus produces stunning, star-shaped white flowers that bloom exclusively at night. Each flower lasts only one evening, opening late and wilting by sunrise. The Dutchman’s Pipe Cactus is known for its exotic look and strong fragrance, which attracts pollinators like moths and bats. This plant prefers partial shade and moderate watering, unlike traditional cacti, making it a fascinating addition to indoor gardens or shaded patios.

9. Tuberose (Polianthes Tuberosa)

Tuberose is widely used in perfumes and floral arrangements because it is famous for its rich, luxurious scent. Its waxy white flowers bloom in clusters on tall stems, emitting an intoxicating fragrance that strengthens as the night progresses. This plant thrives in warm climates and is often cultivated commercially in fragrance production. Gardeners love growing tuberose near walkways and seating areas to enjoy its aroma during cooler evenings.

Conclusion About Flowers That Bloom At Night

These flowers, which bloom only at night, add a touch of mystery and charm to any space. Their unique beauty and evening fragrance make them special additions to moonlit gardens and floral arrangements.

If you love flowers—day or night—we offer a beautiful selection with free flower delivery in Singapore, making it easy to bring floral elegance into your home. 

Contact us today for a guaranteed on-time delivery!

Frequently Asked Questions About Flowers That Bloom At Night

Why Do Some Flowers Only Bloom At Night?

Many night-blooming flowers have evolved to attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and bats. Their strong fragrance and pale colours make them easier to find in the dark.

Can I Grow Night-Blooming Flowers At Home?

Yes! Many of these flowers, like moonflowers and night-blooming jasmine, grow well in home gardens with the right care, including well-drained soil and plenty of warmth.

Do Night-Blooming Flowers Smell Stronger Than Daytime Flowers?

Most do! Many night-blooming flowers produce intense fragrances since they rely on scent rather than bright colours to attract pollinators.

How Long Do Night-Blooming Flowers Stay Open?

It varies—some, like tuberoses, bloom for several nights, while others, like Queen of the Night, may only bloom for a few hours once a year.

Can I Use Night-Blooming Flowers In Floral Arrangements?

Absolutely! Tuberose and night-blooming jasmine are popular in bouquets and perfumes because of their long-lasting fragrance.

Are There Night-Blooming Flowers That Grow Well In Warm Climates?

Yes! Flowers like night-blooming jasmine, four o’clock flowers, and moonflowers thrive in warm and humid conditions.