Peruvian Apple Cactus

Family

Cactacaea

Native

South America

Description

A branching, columnar cactus with coppery red spines. This monstrose variety has bumpy, knobby stems, unlike the straight, ribbed form of the typical species.

This cactus has irregularly ribbed gray to green stems that can grow up to 15' tall, large night-blooming white flowers and edible orange fruits with white flesh.

Environment

This plant best grows in porous soil, and required good drainage. A sunlight friendly plant, this requires ample of bright light and airflow. Watering is required when the soil becomes dry to touch.

Landscape Uses

Cereus petra is suitable and considered in the group of xeriscape plants. They are effective as container plants especially when included in rock gardens or with other cacti. As tree-like cacti, Cereus petra make impressive accent plants and hedges.