21 Nighttime Plants And Flowers For Moonlit Gardens

Welcome to the enchanting world of moonlit gardens, where the night blooms come alive and your backyard transforms into a nocturnal paradise! We’ve curated a list of 21 stunning nighttime plants and flowers that will illuminate your evenings with their ethereal glow and intoxicating scents. Whether you’re a night owl tending to your plants under the stars or anyone looking to add a touch of majesty to your evening landscape, these nocturnal beauties will captivate your senses and inspire your green thumb.

Beautiful moon flower blooming under the moon.

So grab your gardening boots and a big cup of moonlit tea, and let’s dive into the mystique of night-blooming flora. Get ready to turn your garden into a starry oasis!

Many botanical specimens are ideal for your midnight garden, but the following 21 are our absolute favorites.

1. Night-Blooming Cereus (Epiphyllum Oxypetalum)

Bright white cereus flowers blooming at night.

As dusk falls, the night-blooming cereus transforms into a mystical wonder. Its large, fragrant white flowers unfurl under the moonlight, filling the garden with an intoxicating scent. This cactus blooms for just one night, making each flowering an event to be cherished. Perfect for warm climates, this nocturnal beauty will add a touch of ephemeral magic to your garden.

Growing Zone: Zones 9 to 11.
Mature Height: Varies; can climb or trail up to 10 feet.
Bloom Time: It blooms once a year, usually during the summer months, with each flower blooming for a single night.
Care Requirements: Thrives in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Protect from frost.

A fleeting queen, blooming but once a year, she graces the night with her fragrant splendor.

2. Night Gladiolus (Gladiolus Tristis)

Bright red gladiolus flowers blooming at night.

Night gladiolus is a striking addition to any evening garden, with its creamy-yellow blooms that open during late afternoons. By night, these flowers emit a spicy, clove-like fragrance that permeates the air, attracting moths and other nighttime pollinators. Tall and elegant, this gladiolus variety thrives in full sun to partial shade and can create a dramatic display when planted in clusters.

Growing Zone: Zones 7 to 10.
Mature Height: 2 to 4 feet.
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Provide regular watering during growth and bloom periods.

The night gladiolus dances under the stars, spicy-scented and elegantly tall.

3. Queen Of The Night (Selenicereus Srandiflorus)

Queen of the Night flower blooming at night.

True to its regal name, the Queen of the Night is a showstopper with its large, white, and fragrant flowers. This cactus blooms during the darkness of night. Its blossoms can span a foot across, glowing ethereally under the moon’s gentle rays. It is a climber, so let it ascend trellises or walls and enjoy the spectacle of its nocturnal blooms.

Growing Zone: Zones 10 to 11.
Mature Height: Climbing vine; can reach up to 20 feet.
Bloom Time: Night bloomer, typically in late spring to summer.
Care Requirements: Prefers well-drained soil and bright indirect light. Water sparingly when dormant.

The Queen of the Night is a breathtaking nocturnal spectacle with regal grace under the moon’s tender gaze.

4. Moonlit Grass (Miscanthus Sinensis Morning Light)

Lush green miscanthus sinensis variegatus growing in the garden.

Moonlit grass adds an enchanting silver shimmer to your nighttime garden. Its delicate, variegated leaves catch the moon’s light, creating a soft, glowing effect. As the breeze rustles through this tall ornamental grass, it brings movement and a whispering sound to the serene night. Ideal for creating borders or as a focal point, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Growing Zone: Zones 5 to 9.
Mature Height: 4 to 6 feet.
Bloom Time: Plumes appear in late summer to early fall.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. Cut back in early spring to encourage new growth.

Moonlit grass dances in the night breeze with silver whispers of nocturnal beauty, reminding us to feel the evening.

5. Four O’clock Flower (Mirabilis Jalapa)

Colorful four o'clock flower blooming in the garden.

The four o’clock flower gets its name from its habit of opening in the late afternoon. It brings a burst of vibrant color to the twilight hours. Available in shades of pink, yellow, white, and red, these trumpet-shaped blossoms stay open all night, releasing a sweet, citrusy fragrance. These perennials are a delightful addition to any night garden, easy to grow, and drought-tolerant.

Growing Zone: Zones 4 to 10.
Mature Height: 2 to 3 feet.
Bloom Time: Blooms during the late afternoon and evening throughout the summer.
Care Requirements: Prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Tolerates drought once established.

Opening at twilight, four o’clock flowers paint the garden with vibrant hues and a citrusy aroma.

6. Night-Scented Stock (Matthiola Longipetala)

Pretty matthiola longipetala flowers growing in the garden.

Night-scented stock is a modest-looking plant by day, but when evening arrives, its small, lilac flowers release a powerful, sweet fragrance. This humble annual is perfect for borders or containers, where you can enjoy its scent up close. It Blooms from late spring to early fall and delivers a night-scented delight, a must-have for anyone who loves fragrant gardens.

Growing Zone: Annual in most zones; perennial in Zones 9 to 10.
Mature Height: 1 to 2 feet.
Bloom Time: Flowers release fragrance in the evening and night.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering.

Modest by day and enchanting by night, this stock’s sweet perfume fills the air.

7. Silver Falls (Dichondra Argentea)

Stunning silver falls plant growing in the garden.

Silver Falls is a cascading marvel that turns your garden into a moonlit wonderland. Its silvery, heart-shaped leaves reflect the moonlight, creating a shimmering waterfall effect when planted in hanging baskets or as ground cover. Drought-tolerant and easy to care for, Silver Falls adds an elegant touch to any nighttime garden.

Growing Zone: Zones 7 to 11.
Mature Height: Trailing ground cover; reaches 1 to 2 feet.
Bloom Time: Non-flowering; grown for its silver-green foliage.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Requires regular watering to establish.

Silver Falls delivers a cascade of silver leaves glistening like moonlit waterfalls in your garden.

8. Lamb’s Ear (Stachys Byzantina)

Lush lamb ear shrub growing in the backyard garden.

Lamb’s ear brings a tactile, silvery charm to the night garden with its soft, velvety leaves that almost beg to be admired. Under the moonlight, the silvery foliage glows softly, adding a serene beauty to garden paths and borders. This hardy perennial is a feast for the eyes and a drought-resistant, low-maintenance plant perfect for any garden.

Growing Zone: Zones 4 to 8.
Mature Height: 1 to 2 feet.
Bloom Time: Spikes of tiny purple flowers in summer.
Care Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil. Drought-tolerant once established.

Lamb’s ear softly glows under the moonlight, casting a gentle, silvery sheen.

9. Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera Sempervirens)

Beautiful honeysuckle flower blooming in the garden.

Trumpet honeysuckle is a night garden treasure. Its tubular flowers, in shades of coral, red, or yellow, bloom from spring through fall. As evening approaches, these blossoms become last-minute beacons for hummingbirds and sphinx moths, adding life and movement to the twilight garden. This well-behaved climber can gracefully adorn fences, trellises, or arbors, creating lush, wildlife-friendly green backdrops.

Growing Zone: Zones 4 to 9.
Mature Height: A climbing vine typically reaching 10 to 20 feet.
Bloom Time: Tubular flowers bloom from spring through fall, with the heaviest flowering in early summer.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade in moist, well-drained soil. If desired, prune after flowering to shape.

These sweetly scented blooms twine and climb, perfuming the night with their alluring fragrance.

10. Nicotiana (Nicotiana Alata)

Epic nicotiana alata flowers blooming at dusk.

Nicotiana, or flowering tobacco, comes alive at night. Its tubular flowers open to release a heady fragrance that fills the evening air. Available in shades of white, pink, and green, these flowers are a favorite of moths and other night pollinators. Plant them in groups for a spectacular olfactory experience that complements their star-shaped blooms.

Growing Zone: Zones 10 to 11 (annual elsewhere).
Mature Height: 2 to 3 feet.
Bloom Time: Tubular white or pink flowers open at dusk.
Care Requirements: Prefers full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil. Deadhead to encourage continuous blooming.

Nicotiana’s flowers open as stars emerge, releasing a dreamy, sweet scent.

11. Evening Primrose (Oenothera Biennis)

Lovely yellow evening primrose blooming in the twilight garden.

Evening primrose is a sensual addition to any night garden. Its lemon-yellow flowers open in the evening and remain open until the following day. These blooms emit a subtle, sweet scent and attract nocturnal pollinators like moths and beetles. Painless to cultivate and tolerant of various soil types, evening primrose can add a sunny splash of color to your garden under the moonlight.

Growing Zone: Zones 3 to 9.
Mature Height: 3 to 5 feet.
Bloom Time: Large yellow flowers open in the evening and night.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. It tolerates poor soil conditions.

Evening primrose brings metaphorical sunshine to the night with beautiful golden blooms that open at dusk.

12. Angel’s Trumpet (Brugmansia spp.)

Beautiful but toxic angels trumpet flowers in the garden.

Angel’s trumpet is a dramatic, tropical addition to any night garden. Its large, pendulous, trumpet-shaped flowers can reach 12 inches long and release a potent, alluring fragrance at night, making them stand out. Available in shades of white, yellow, pink, and orange, this plant adds a touch of exotic allure to evening landscapes.

Growing Zone: Zones 8 to 11.
Mature Height: Small tree or shrub; can reach 10 to 20 feet.
Bloom Time: Large, trumpet-shaped flowers with a strong fragrance at night.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade in rich, well-drained soil. Provide regular watering and fertilization during the growing season.

These exotic, fragrant trumpets sound a silent melody under the moonlit sky. But we also warn you! If ingested, all parts of Brugmansia plants are highly toxic for humans and pets alike. The plant contains dangerous levels of tropane alkaloids, which can cause severe poisoning, stomach cramps, and nausea.

13. Night-Blooming Orchid (Brassavola Nodosa)

Lovely white brassavola nodosa flowers blooming in the garden.

The night-blooming orchid, also known as the “Lady of the Night,” is a stunning epiphyte with small, white flowers that exude a powerful, sweet fragrance after dark. Ideal for hanging baskets or mounting on trees, this orchid thrives in humid environments and adds an exotic flair to nighttime gardens. Its delicate blooms glow softly in the moonlight, creating a serene, romantic atmosphere.

Growing Zone: Zones 10 to 11.
Mature Height: 1 to 2 feet.
Bloom Time: Fragrant white flowers open at night.
Care Requirements: Grow in bright indirect light or filtered sun in a well-drained orchid mix. Water thoroughly when dry.

These orchids offer delicate white blooms that whisper of tropical nights and sweet fragrances.

14. Moonflower (Ipomoea Alba)

Gorgeous blooming moonflowers in the twilight garden.

Moonflower is a classic night garden plant with large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers that open at dusk and remain open until sunrise. These fast-growing vines can quickly cover trellises, fences, or arbors, creating a lush, green backdrop that bursts into bloom each evening. Their sweet fragrance and luminous petals make them a captivating sight under the moon’s glow.

Growing Zone: Moonflower is perennial in Zones 10 to 12 and grows annually in Zones 7 to 9.
Mature Height: Climbing vine; can reach 10 to 15 feet.
Bloom Time: Large, fragrant white blooms open at night.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun in fertile, well-drained soil. Provide support for climbing.

Moonflowers unfurl at dusk, sporting luminous petals and sweet scents that enchant the night.

15. Silver Sage (Salvia Argentea)

Majestic salvia argentea or silver sage growing in the garden.

Silver sage is a striking addition to any night garden, with its large, velvety, silver leaves that catch and reflect the moonlight. This biennial plant forms a low-growing rosette, adding texture and visual interest to borders and garden beds. Easy to grow and drought-tolerant, silver sage is both a beautiful and practical choice for moonlit landscapes.

Growing Zone: Zones 5 to 8.
Mature Height: 1 to 2 feet.
Bloom Time: White to silver spikes in late spring to early summer.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Cut back after flowering to maintain appearance.

With leaves like silver velvet, silver sage captures moonbeams in a gentle embrace.

16. Ghost Plant (Graptopetalum Paraguayense)

Pretty graptopetalum paraguayense plants growing in the midnight garden.

The ghost plant, a type of heat-loving succulent, adds an otherworldly charm to nighttime gardens with its rosettes of pale, blue-gray leaves. These fleshy leaves have a ghostly sheen under the moonlight, creating a subtle, glowing effect. Easy to care for and drought-resistant, ghost plants are perfect for rock gardens, containers, or ground cover in dry areas.

Growing Zone: Zones 9 to 11. (Grow them in pots in colder climates – bring them in during winter.)
Mature Height: Low-growing succulent; reaches 6 to 12 inches.
Bloom Time: Rarely flowers; grown for silvery leaves that shine in the moonlight.
Care Requirements: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Water sparingly.

Ghost plants produce ghostly rosettes that glow eerily pale, bringing otherworldly charm to the evening.

17. Night Phlox (Zaluzianskya Capensis)

Stunning purple phlox paniculate flowers blooming at night.

Night phlox is a delightful addition to any evening garden. Its small, star-shaped white flowers open at dusk, releasing a rich, vanilla-like fragrance. This low-growing annual is perfect for borders or containers, where you can savor the scent. Night phlox adds a fragrant, whimsical touch to nighttime landscapes from late spring to early fall.

Growing Zone: Zones 8 to 10.
Mature Height: 6 to 12 inches.
Bloom Time: Star-shaped white flowers open in the evening with a honey-like fragrance.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun in well-drained soil. Deadhead spent blooms to prolong flowering.

These plants introduce starry blooms that perfume the night air with a sweet, vanilla-like fragrance.

18. White Campion (Silene Latifolia)

Pretty silene latifolia or white campion flowers in the garden.

White campion is a charming, hardy perennial that lights up the night garden with its delicate, white blooms. These flowers open in the evening, releasing a subtle fragrance that attracts moths and other nighttime pollinators. With its long blooming season and low-maintenance requirements, white campion is an excellent choice for adding a touch of elegance to moonlit gardens.

Growing Zone: Zones 3 to 9.
Mature Height: 1 to 3 feet.
Bloom Time: White flowers open in the evening to attract moths.
Care Requirements: Thrives in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Tolerates drought once established.

These delicate white flowers open at dusk, adding elegance and subtle fragrance to the night.

19. Night-Blooming Jasmine (Cestrum Nocturnum)

Flashy cestrum nocturnum flowers blooming at night.

Night-blooming jasmine is a night garden favorite. Its small, tubular white flowers emit a powerful, sweet fragrance after dark. This evergreen shrub can grow quite large, providing a lush, green backdrop that comes alive with scent each evening. Ideal for warm climates, night-blooming jasmine is a must-have for fragrance lovers.

Growing Zone: Zones 8 to 11.
Mature Height: 6 to 10 feet.
Bloom Time: Intensely fragrant white or greenish flowers open at night.
Care Requirements: Plant in full sun to partial shade in well-drained soil. Prune to shape after flowering.

Night-blooming jasmine intoxicates the night air with a nocturnal serenade of sweet scent.

20. Moonlit Cactus (Echinopsis Eyriesii)

Beautifull echinopsis eyriesii flowers growing in pots.

The moonlit cactus is a unique addition to any night garden. Its large, fragrant, white flowers bloom under the cover of darkness and can last several days, making them a captivating sight against the cactus’s spiny green body. Hardy and drought-resistant, the moonlit cactus adds an exotic, desert-like flair to your garden.

Growing Zone: Zones 9 to 11.
Mature Height: Low-growing; reaches 6 to 12 inches.
Bloom Time: Large white flowers bloom at night.
Care Requirements: Plant in well-drained soil in full sun. Water sparingly during dormancy.

These are the spiky guardians of the desert, blooming under the moon with fragrant, white flowers.

21. Night Blooming Water Lily (Nymphaea Odorata)

Beautiful pink water lily floating on a backyard pond.

Night-blooming water lilies are magical additions to any backyard duck pond or water feature. Their large, white, or pink flowers open at dusk and close by midday. These luminous blossoms float serenely on the water’s surface, reflecting the moonlight and adding a tranquil beauty to nighttime gardens. Their sweet fragrance and serene appearance make them perfect for creating a peaceful, reflective garden space.

Growing Zone: Zones 3 to 11.
Mature Height: Floating plant; spreads across the water surface.
Bloom Time: Fragrant white flowers open in the evening and close by morning.
Care Requirements: Plant in still water in full sun. Fertilize during active growth season.

These lilies float peacefully under the moon, bringing harmony and beauty to the night garden.

Conclusion

Thanks for exploring the world of star-lit gardens with us! We cordially invite you to join our gang of midnight growers accompanied by these enchanting plants. Let’s practice our green thumbs as the tree frogs chirp and night owls lurk. Shall we?

What about you?

Have you ever gardened under the moonlight?
Do you have any night-blooming beauties in your garden?
Have you ever witnessed a flower blooming under the stars?
What magical moments have you experienced in your nighttime garden?
Are there any other lovely plants that look dashing under the moonlit skies?

Share your midnight stories and join our community of night gardeners who celebrate the beauty of moonlit blooms!

Thanks again for reading.

Have a great day!