Top 10 Night Blooming Flowers You Didn’t Know Existed
Have you ever walked outside on a warm evening and been greeted by an unexpected fragrance in the air?
You glance around but don’t see any open flowers until you realize: they bloom when the sun goes down.
Welcome to the enchanting world of night blooming flowers – nature’s mysterious gifts that awaken under moonlight and perfume the night.
In this blog, we will explore 10 rare and magical night-blooming flowers, answer your most Googled questions like “what are the flowers that bloom at night?”, “Why do some flowers bloom only at night?” and help you start your own moon garden, even if you live in a hot, dry climate like the UAE.
What Are Night Blooming Flowers?
“When the world sleeps, these blooms come alive.”
Night blooming flowers are species that open their petals during the evening or nighttime hours, typically between dusk and dawn. These flowers have adapted to attract nocturnal pollinators like moths, bats, and even night bees.
Unlike typical daytime blooms, these flowers often:
- They are white or pale in color to reflect moonlight.
- Emit strong fragrances at night.
- Thrive in tropical and arid regions.
Why Do Some Flowers Bloom Only at Night?
“Blooms that wait for the moon and whisper to the stars”
It is not just for show! Night blooming flowers have evolved this schedule for survival and reproduction. Some of the top reasons include:
- Avoiding extreme daytime heat is especially useful in desert environments.
- Attracting nighttime pollinators like moths, which are active after sunset.
- Conserving moisture by blooming in cooler, less evaporative conditions.
- Creating unique ecological niches that reduce competition with day-blooming plants.
List of Flowers that Bloom at Night
Flowers that bloom only at night create a serene, dreamlike atmosphere in any space.
Let’s explore the captivating list of nighttime blooming flowers, their appearance, and how you can grow them, even in containers!
1. Moonflower (Ipomoea alba)
Do you want a flower that opens dramatically at dusk and closes by morning? Then, Moonflowers is your go-to. The huge, white trumpet-shaped blooms glow under the moonlight, filling the air with soft fragrance.
Why do you love it?
- Fast-growing climber – perfect for fences and pavilions.
- Fragrance that intensifies at night.
- Looks spectacular in evening lighting.
Care Tips:
- Needs full sun during the day.
- Soak seeds before planting to speed up germination.
- Water regularly, but don’t overwater.
Perfect for vertical garden spaces, balconies, and dreamy romantic flower arrangements on moonlit date nights.
2. Night Phlox (Zaluzianskya ovata)
Also known as “Midnight Candy” for its deliciously sweet scent, Night Phlox blooms in white and maroon shades and is best appreciated up close. Ever wanted a fragrant flower that fits right on your balcony? You can grow these flowers that thrives in containers too.
Why it’s unique:
- Small but mighty when it comes to fragrance.
- Loved by nighttime pollinators.
Care Tips:
- Prefers cool evenings.
- Best planted near seating areas or open windows.
3. Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides)
While not exclusively night-blooming, Gardenias release their intense fragrance mostly during the evening hours. Their velvety white petals and glossy green leaves make them a favourite in formal and tropical gardens.
What makes it classic:
- Long-lasting blooms.
- Luxurious scent after dusk.
- Excellent for flower bouquets.
Care Tips:
- Needs acidic soil (consider potted growth).
- Likes humidity and indirect sunlight.
Pro Tip: Plant near doorways or outdoor space for an evening sensory treat.
4. Night Blooming Jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum)
Contrary to its name, Night Blooming Jasmine is not a true jasmine, but it wins hearts with its unmatched aroma. Its small tubular flowers unleash a strong scent after dark that can fill an entire garden.
Why it stands out:
- One of the most fragrant night flowers.
- Grows fast and tall, excellent for hedges or privacy screens.
Care Tips:
- It can become invasive and is best grown in pots.
- Prune regularly to control the spread.
- Loves warm climates like Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
6. Four O’Clock (Mirabilis jalapa Alba)
These vibrant flowers open around 4 PM, hence the name and stay open until the following morning. The ‘Alba’ variety has a clean white hue, ideal for moon gardens.
Why it’s special:
- Comes in multiple colors, including white, pink, and yellow.
- Self-seeds easily—blooms again year after year.
Care Tips:
- Very low maintenance.
- Loves the sun but tolerates some shade.
6. Mock Orange (Philadelphus spp.)
Looking for an orange blossom-like fragrance without the citrus? Mock Orange gives you that. It’s a deciduous shrub with white flowers that release a jasmine-orange scent, especially in the evening.
Why it’s a hidden gem?
- Elegant white flowers.
- Great hedge or standalone shrub.
- Attracts nighttime moths.
7. Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis)
Known for its healing oil, Evening Primrose also serves up charming yellow flowers that open at dusk. It’s drought-resistant and ideal for wildflower gardens.
Why it’s a pollinator favourite?
- Attracts moths and bees.
- Hardy and self-sowing.
Care Tips:
- Tolerates poor soil.
- Best planted in naturalistic settings.
8. Casa Blanca Lily (Lilium ‘Casa Blanca’)
The Casa Blanca Lily is a standout choice in garden and floral arrangements, known for its large, pristine white blooms and a delightful spicy-sweet fragrance that intensifies after sunset. These lilies also work excellent as cut flowers, enhancing indoor spaces with their elegant presence.
Why you’ll love it?
- Glamorous and bold.
- Long vase life.
- Blooms in summer.
Care Tips:
- Requires rich, well-drained soil.
- Stake taller stems to prevent tipping.
Perfect for bridal bouquets, romantic events, or luxurious gardens.
9. Queen of the Night (Epiphyllum oxypetalum)
Arguably the most magical of all, the Queen of the Night flowers blooms only once a year—and only at night! The enormous white flowers last just a few hours, making it an event you’ll never forget.
Why it’s legendary?
- One-night bloom for hosting “bloom watch” parties!
- Grows well indoors with indirect light.
Care Tips:
- Let the soil dry between waterings.
- Place in a bright but shaded location.
Great conversation starter and houseplant!
10. Nocturnum Orchid (Brassavola nocturnum)
Rare and not widely grown, the Nocturnum Orchid is a delicate epiphytic orchid that emits a citrusy fragrance at night. While Phalaenopsis orchids are cherished for their beauty and elegance, the Nocturnum Orchid offers a unique, fragrant twist for your orchid flowers bouquets collection.
Why it’s rare?
- Night time citrus aroma.
- Native to tropical forests.
Care Tips:
- Needs high humidity and warm temperatures.
- Mist regularly and use orchid bark or mounted growth.
Honourable Mention: Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa)
We could not skip this one! The Tuberose sends out creamy white blossoms with a fragrance so divine, it is often used in luxury perfumes. It’s a traditional moon garden favourite.
Why it’s timeless?
- Long blooming season.
- Amazing in bouquets.
- Symbolizes sensuality and devotion.
How to Start Your Own Night Garden
Here’s a quick guide to get you started with your own moonlit floral escape:
Step | Tip |
Choose light-coloured, fragrant plants | Reflect moonlight and attract moths |
Pick containers if space is limited | Use pots for invasive or tropical species |
Add string lights or solar path lights | Enhance visibility and vibe |
Place near windows or patios | Maximize scent enjoyment |
Water late in the day | Mimics natural blooming cycle |
If you are fascinated by unique and unexpected floral varieties, don’t stop here. Explore our blog post on 10 Types of Flowers You Didn’t Know You’d Love. From exotic textures to surprising scents, it’s a delightful dive into blooms that deserve a spot in your bouquet or garden.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are building a romantic moon garden or just adding one fragrant flower pot to your balcony, rare night-blooming flowers offer a magical, almost secretive charm. They’re proof that beauty does not just belong to the day, it thrives under moonlight too.
These are not just plants, they are experiences. Imagine stepping into your backyard after dark and being met with glowing petals and a whisper of fragrance in the night air. It is pure peace, wonder, and joy.
If you are looking to boost your ambience with fresh flowers or unique floral arrangements, our flower shop in Dubai offers a wide variety, with reliable flower delivery in Dubai to bring beauty to any occasion.
FAQs | Night Blooming Flowers
Examples include Moonflower, Night Jasmine, Tuberose, and Queen of the Night species adapted to nocturnal blooming.
Varieties like Night Jasmine, Moonflower, and Tuberose thrive in regions like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other hot zones.
Many are hardy perennials or self-seeding annuals. Just match the plant to your climate and care level.
They attract moths, bats, and sometimes bees, which are natural and beneficial pollinators.
