The wait is over. The Queen of the Night is blooming tonight at Tohono Chul Park.
You don't want to miss it because the night-blooming cereus, Peniocereus greggii, only blooms once a year. The stick-like cactus produces beautiful palm-sized flowers that wilt within a few hours.
Bloom Night is a Tucson thing you have to experience at least once in your life. The annual event attracts 1,500 to 2,500 people, according to Tohono Chul. Guests bring their flashlights and wait attentively for the flowers to bloom.
The cactus is tracked carefully in the summer, waiting for signs it will bloom and tonight is the night.
Pro tips: Wear closed-toe shoes, bring a flashlight and sign up for the bloom watch email newsletter for updates.
YAS QUEEN.
If you go
What: Bloom Night
When: Tuesday, July 18, 6 p.m. to midnight.
Where: Tohono Chul at 7366 N. Paseo Del Norte, near West Ina Road and North Oracle Road.
Cost: General admission is $5 and free for members and children 12 and under.
