Cereus repandus
The Peruvian Apple Cactus thrives in sunlight and occasional watering. It's the perfect plant for folks with busy schedules. If you're lucky, it'll reward you with flowers and fruits similar to dragon fruit. Available in half-foot (0.5FT) to 4FT lengths.
Pro-tip: Place in front of a window for best results, preferably with southern or western exposure.
Please note that this cactus is a cutting, sold bare-root.
Open your cactus package with caution. Don't get pricked!
Peruvian Apple Cactus Care Guide
Peruvian Apple Cactus: Overview
Meet the intriguing Peruvian Apple Cactus (Cereus repandus), a columnar cactus that features ribbed, green stems. It’s a flowering plant that produces white blooms, often showcasing pinkish hues. This gorgeous air purifier is native to various regions in South America, usually found in Peru. It prefers warm, dry climates, thriving in full sun and hardy zones 9-11.
This tough and drought-resistant plant is very low-maintenance, ideal for people new to plant care. It’s a pet-friendly succulent; however, its sharp spines pose some risk to domestic animals.
The Peruvian Apple cactus is associated with endurance in dire times; hence, it makes a great present for loved ones in need of support.
Peruvian Apple Cactus: Benefits
- Easy to care for and hardy
- A drought-resistant plant
- Perfect for beginner gardeners
- Produces delicious fruit, tasting like kiwi and pear
- Fast-growing; can live for decades indoors
Peruvian Apple Cactus Care Guide
Follow our expert tips for the best Peruvian Apple Cactus care to ensure your plant thrives well indoors.
Watering and Humidity
The Peruvian Apple Cactus is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering, especially during the cold months when dormant. Ensure the soil dries completely between waterings to prevent root rot. The Peruvian Apple cactus tolerates humidity levels of 30-60%.
Light and Temperature
The Peruvian Apple cactus grows best in full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily). This encourages blooming and strong roots. In very hot summers, if kept outdoors, partial shade can be beneficial, as there’s a risk of scorching. This cactus is cold-tolerant in temperatures above freezing (if kept protected and dry).
Soil, Feeding, and Repotting
Repot your Peruvian Apple cactus every 2-3 years or when it requires fresh soil. Spring and early summer are the best times to transplant it. Use a pot that is an inch larger than the previous one, filled with well-draining, gritty soil. Fertilize sparingly in the active growing season.
Propagation
Peruvian Apple cactus propagation is straightforward. You can multiply this plant by rooting a cutting in well-draining succulent potting mix. Ensure optimal conditions for best results, such as sufficient light and moisture.
Common Problems
Common issues with your Peruvian Apple cactus include overwatering, insufficient light, and pests. Water infrequently to prevent root rot and provide direct sunlight for several hours daily. Address pests, such as aphids and spider mites, promptly for optimal growth.
Peruvian Apple Cactus: Placement, Companion & Alternative Plants
Grow your Peruvian Apple Cactus with other succulents and cacti to create an exotic feel in your indoor space. In warmer climates, this beauty can make a great statement plant on the porch.
Best Locations & Uses
- Ideal for sunny spaces, due to its full-sun tolerance
- Unique look and pretty creamy-white flowers
- A great option for office spaces and busy folks.
- Makes a beautiful and thoughtful gift
- Non-toxic and safe for pets (with supervision)
Companion Plants
Here are some amazing companion plants you can pair with your Peruvian Apple Cactus:
- Aloe Vera Plant (Aloe barbadensis): You can grow your Peruvian Apple Cactus with the popular Aloe Vera plant for the ultimate succulent display.
- Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe): Add color to your plant collection with the beautiful Kalanchoe, which will reward you with its gorgeous blooms.
- Mistletoe Cactus (Rhipsalis baccifera): A holiday favorite, the Mistletoe cactus adds visual interest all year round.
Alternative Plants
If you’re looking for alternative plants, check out the versatile succulents below:
- White Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii 'White'): The beautiful White Christmas Cactus showcases gorgeous white blooms that can last for weeks with the right care.
- Variegated Zebra Haworthia (Haworthia fasciata variegata): The Variegated Zebra Haworthia is a stunning succulent with unique variegation and easy-care needs.
- Monstrose Cactus (Cereus peruvianus monstrose): The Monstrose Cactus requires similar growing conditions; hence, it’s a great alternative to the Peruvian Apple cactus.
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