The species in this genus grow like vines, sprawling and clambering their way up into the trees. Most species are not epiphytic, but root in the ground and climb from there. The plants may branch frequently and grow quite high up exceeding 30 feet (10 meters) thus becoming quite massive. The stems are typically three-angled with wavy or punctuated margins and few short spines if any. Flowers of Hylocereus are the largest in the cactus family with the largest easily exceeding 12 inches (30cm) in length and diameter. The floral tubes are thick with leafy scales and no spines or bristles or hairs. The flowers are primarily white and fragrant opening at night. Surprisingly, these massive flowers will only remain open for only a few hours on just one night. This combination of large size and short lifespan make viewing aHylocereus flower a real treat! Although, well-established plants in warmer climates may produce many flowers over the course of several nights.