Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &
Peruvian Apple Cactus &

Introducing the Peruvian apple cactus, also known as Cereus repandus (formerly known as Cereus peruvianus), which belongs to the Cereus genus. Native to South America, the Peruvian apple cactus gets its name from its resemblance to an apple. This columnar cactus has several other common names, such as apple cactus hedge, Queen of the Night, and giant club cactus.

The perennial peruvian apple cactus has a tree-like appearance, often with many upright or slightly curved branches and often with distinct trunks that can grow up to 33 feet tall. 

The flowers of the Peruvian apple cactus bloom at night in the warm season, which is one of its most distinctive features. These flowers are large and showy, typically measuring around 6 inches in diameter. They come in various colors, including white, yellow, and pink, and emit a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators like bats and moths. Each nocturnal flower opens for just one night and then shrivels up. 

The fruit of the Peruvian apple cactus resembles dragon fruit in appearance, but it is totally smooth and spherical and lacks a leafy scale-like structure. When fully mature, its magenta-red exterior will break open to reveal a white, mushy inside flecked with small black seeds like kiwi seeds.

Peruvian apple cactus propagation can be done through various methods, such as stem cuttings or crunchy seeds. Both methods require proper care and attention to ensure the successful propagation of the apple cactus. 

Additionally, the Peruvian apple cactus is friendly to both humans and pets. Furthermore, the Peruvian apple cactus is known for its ability to thrive in arid climates, making it a low-maintenance plant for gardening enthusiasts.

Watering Needs 

In addition to its striking appearance, the Peruvian apple cactus family is also known for its resilience and ability to thrive in arid conditions. It has adapted to survive in dry and hot climates by storing water in its thick, fleshy stems. This adaptation allows the Peruvian apple cactus to withstand periods of drought and makes it a low-maintenance plant for cactus enthusiasts. 

In the spring and summer, during the growing season, you can water the Peruvian apple cactus once every 2–3 weeks. However, during the dormant period in winter, it is best to reduce the watering frequency to once a month or even less, as the Cereus repandus requires less water during this time. To avoid root rot, allow the soil to dry between waterings.

Remember to always check the moisture level of the soil before watering to ensure you're not overwatering this desert-loving Peruvian apple plant. 

Light Requirements 

When growing the Peruvian apple cactus indoors, it's important to provide it with bright, indirect light. Place it near a window where it can receive several hours of bright light each day. However, make sure to protect it from direct sunlight, as it can scorch the plant's delicate tissues. You can also supplement light with a grow light specifically designed for indoor plants. This will help ensure that your cactus receives the right amount of light for healthy growth.

When grown outdoors, your Peruvian apple cactus thrives in full sun conditions, so it's best to place it in a spot where it can receive at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It loves warm and sunny climates.

Lighting Tips

  1. If you notice that your cereus cactus is stretching or leaning toward the light, it might be an indication that it needs more sunlight.
  2. On the other hand, if you see signs of sunburn, such as yellow or brown spots on the cactus, it may be getting too much direct sunlight.
  3. Finding the right balance of light will help your night-blooming cereus cactus to grow a healthy apple cactus fruit.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

When it comes to choosing the light, well-draining soil for your adorable Peruvian cacti plant, you need to be careful! It's like picking out the perfect outfit for a date—you want to make sure everything is just right so there are no surprises later on.

Planting your Peruvian apple cactus in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot. That's why we at Planet Desert have got your back with our specialized cactus potting mix. This organic substrate has mycorrhizal, which helps grow plants with a healthy root system that makes all those thick stems stand tall and proud. As an okay alternative, you can create your own cactus mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil.

When it comes to fertilizing, the Cereus repandus does not require frequent feeding. You can use a balanced (5-10-5) NPK fertilizer once a year during the growing season, which is typically spring. However, it's important not to overfertilize, as this can cause damage to the cactus.

Remember to follow these instructions for Peruvian apple cactus care and adjust the frequency based on the needs of your individual plant.

Hardiness Zone & More 

When growing indoors, the Cereus repandus prefers average room temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Hailing all the way from arid regions, it can tolerate slightly higher temperatures, but try to avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold drafts. It can thrive in average household humidity, which is typically around 40–60%. If your home tends to be very dry, especially during the winter months, you can increase the humidity around the plant by using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with water near the cactus.

For outdoor cultivation, the Peruvian apple cactus is a desert cactus and is generally hardy in USDA zones 9–11, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F to 40°F. It's important to provide good air circulation around the cactus to prevent excessive humidity and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Peruvian apple cactus (Cereus repandus) is a unique and captivating plant that adds tropical beauty to any space. Its tall, columnar stems and white flowers bloom at night, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. This easy-to-care-for plant thrives in well-draining soil and prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some drought but requires regular watering during the growing season and reduced watering in the winter to prevent root rot. The Peruvian apple cactus produces edible fruits resembling small apples, which are sweet and juicy. However, it may take several years for the cactus to reach maturity. 

With the help of the cactus Cereus repandus – Peruvian apple cactus, you'll start to spend less time maintaining your garden and more time taking in its beauty! 

Bloom Season Summer
Botanical Name Cereus repandus
Common Name Peruvian apple cactus, Hedge cactus, Queen of the Night, Giant club cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color White, Yellow, pink
Genus Cereus
Growth Habit Columnar
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size Up to 33 ft. tall
Native Area South America
Plant Type Perennial cactus
Propagation By seeds, stem cuttings
Resistance Drought tolerant, heat resistant, pest resistant, deer resistance
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized cactus potting mix
Special Features Edible fruits
Sun Exposure Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Cereus repandus

Cereus repandus (Peruvian apple cactus plants) can be prone to certain pests and common problems. The most common problems are: 

Pests Infestation: Mealybugs and scale insects can infest the cereus repandus. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of these pests and treat them with appropriate insecticides or by manually removing them. 

Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure the soil is well-drained and to avoid excessive watering. The cereus repandus is susceptible to fungal diseases, especially if the plant grows in humid conditions. Provide good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues. 

Sunburn: Sunburn can occur if the plant is exposed to intense, direct sunlight for extended periods. Provide partial shade or protect your hedgehog cactus during the hottest parts of the day. 

Inadequate light: Inadequate light can cause the cereus repandus to become leggy or have poor growth. Ensure the plant receives enough bright, indirect light for optimal growth. 

Remember to regularly monitor your cereus repandus for any signs of pests or problems and take appropriate action to maintain its health and vitality. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Cereus repandus used for? 

    The cereus repandus (Peruvian apple cactus) is primarily used as an ornamental plant. Its unique and striking appearance, with its tall columnar stems and beautiful white night-blooming flowers, makes it a popular choice for landscaping and indoor decoration.  Additionally, the edible fruits of the cereus repandus are edible and can be consumed or used to make jams and jellies. However, it's important to note that the fruits may not be as flavorful as those of other cactus species. Overall, the cereus repandus is valued for its aesthetic appeal and occasional culinary use. 

  • What are the characteristics of Cereus repandus? 

    The cereus repandus (Peruvian apple cactus) is a tall, column-like cactus species that can reach up to 33 feet. Its ribbed stems are blue-green and covered in spines, and it produces large, white flowers that bloom at night. Its fruits are oblong-shaped and can range from green to orange or red when ripe. The Peruvian apples are hardy and suitable for arid or desert environments, making them a visually striking and resilient cactus species. 

  • What type of fruit comes from Cereus repandus? 

    The fruit of the Peruvian Apple cactus resembles dragon fruit or pitaya in appearance, but it is totally smooth and spherical and lacks a leafy scale-like structure. When fully mature, its magenta-red exterior will break open to reveal a white, mushy inside flecked with small black seeds like kiwi seeds.

  • Is the Peruvian apple cactus fast-growing? 

    Yes, the Peruvian apple cactus is known for its fast growth rate. Its ability to rapidly grow and spread makes it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers looking to create a lush and vibrant landscape in a relatively short period of time. Verbena flowers don't have much of a scent, but many people think verbena foliage smells lemon-like. Others report the scent as clean and uplifting. And for some, it doesn't smell like anything.

  • Does a Peruvian apple cactus need full sun? 

    Yes, a Peruvian apple cactus thrives in full sun. It requires a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and bloom successfully. Additionally, providing it with ample sunlight helps promote healthy growth and prevents the risk of the cactus becoming weak or leggy.

  • Is the Peruvian apple cactus toxic to cats? 

    Peruvian apple cactus (Cereus peruvianus) is generally not considered toxic to cats. However, it is always recommended to monitor your cat's behavior after exposure to any new plant and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms or signs of discomfort.

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Peruvian Apple Cactus 'Cereus repandus'

sku: 1798

4 reviews
Regular price$ 11.49
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Please note: All Landscape Ready plants that are in a 6-inch pot or larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

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Please note: Our large plants are many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive 100% healthy and looking great.

Please note: Our large plants are shipped bare root. They are also many years old, and as a result, they might have minor scaring but will arrive healthy and looking great.

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Detailed description of this plant is below...

If you live in a cold climate and are expecting temperatures below 40 degrees within the next five days after placing your order, we highly recommend adding a heat pack to your order. If you do not order a heat pack, we do not send one with your order.

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Plants that are in 3.5" pots and smaller will be shipped in its pot to prevent any damage to the roots.

Any plant that is 6" and larger WILL NOT come with a pot as it will be shipped bare root.

Depending on the species and season, you will receive a very similar plant to the one in the picture. It may or may not be blooming at the time of your purchase.

We ship via USPS Priority Mail, If you don't get Free Shipping, then we calculate the shipping cost based on the weight and volume of your purchase.

Care instructions are included in every package you order. Please allow us up to 3 business days to process your order. Depending on your location, we will ship the plants on a certain day to avoid transit time during weekends or holidays. If you wish to receive your order on a specific date, or have special instructions, please add a note on your order. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us at any time.

  • Description
  • Key Plant Features

Introducing the Peruvian apple cactus, also known as Cereus repandus (formerly known as Cereus peruvianus), which belongs to the Cereus genus. Native to South America, the Peruvian apple cactus gets its name from its resemblance to an apple. This columnar cactus has several other common names, such as apple cactus hedge, Queen of the Night, and giant club cactus.

The perennial peruvian apple cactus has a tree-like appearance, often with many upright or slightly curved branches and often with distinct trunks that can grow up to 33 feet tall. 

The flowers of the Peruvian apple cactus bloom at night in the warm season, which is one of its most distinctive features. These flowers are large and showy, typically measuring around 6 inches in diameter. They come in various colors, including white, yellow, and pink, and emit a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators like bats and moths. Each nocturnal flower opens for just one night and then shrivels up. 

The fruit of the Peruvian apple cactus resembles dragon fruit in appearance, but it is totally smooth and spherical and lacks a leafy scale-like structure. When fully mature, its magenta-red exterior will break open to reveal a white, mushy inside flecked with small black seeds like kiwi seeds.

Peruvian apple cactus propagation can be done through various methods, such as stem cuttings or crunchy seeds. Both methods require proper care and attention to ensure the successful propagation of the apple cactus. 

Additionally, the Peruvian apple cactus is friendly to both humans and pets. Furthermore, the Peruvian apple cactus is known for its ability to thrive in arid climates, making it a low-maintenance plant for gardening enthusiasts.

Watering Needs 

In addition to its striking appearance, the Peruvian apple cactus family is also known for its resilience and ability to thrive in arid conditions. It has adapted to survive in dry and hot climates by storing water in its thick, fleshy stems. This adaptation allows the Peruvian apple cactus to withstand periods of drought and makes it a low-maintenance plant for cactus enthusiasts. 

In the spring and summer, during the growing season, you can water the Peruvian apple cactus once every 2–3 weeks. However, during the dormant period in winter, it is best to reduce the watering frequency to once a month or even less, as the Cereus repandus requires less water during this time. To avoid root rot, allow the soil to dry between waterings.

Remember to always check the moisture level of the soil before watering to ensure you're not overwatering this desert-loving Peruvian apple plant. 

Light Requirements 

When growing the Peruvian apple cactus indoors, it's important to provide it with bright, indirect light. Place it near a window where it can receive several hours of bright light each day. However, make sure to protect it from direct sunlight, as it can scorch the plant's delicate tissues. You can also supplement light with a grow light specifically designed for indoor plants. This will help ensure that your cactus receives the right amount of light for healthy growth.

When grown outdoors, your Peruvian apple cactus thrives in full sun conditions, so it's best to place it in a spot where it can receive at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It loves warm and sunny climates.

Lighting Tips

  1. If you notice that your cereus cactus is stretching or leaning toward the light, it might be an indication that it needs more sunlight.
  2. On the other hand, if you see signs of sunburn, such as yellow or brown spots on the cactus, it may be getting too much direct sunlight.
  3. Finding the right balance of light will help your night-blooming cereus cactus to grow a healthy apple cactus fruit.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

When it comes to choosing the light, well-draining soil for your adorable Peruvian cacti plant, you need to be careful! It's like picking out the perfect outfit for a date—you want to make sure everything is just right so there are no surprises later on.

Planting your Peruvian apple cactus in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot. That's why we at Planet Desert have got your back with our specialized cactus potting mix. This organic substrate has mycorrhizal, which helps grow plants with a healthy root system that makes all those thick stems stand tall and proud. As an okay alternative, you can create your own cactus mix by combining equal portions of perlite, coarse sand, and good natural potting soil.

When it comes to fertilizing, the Cereus repandus does not require frequent feeding. You can use a balanced (5-10-5) NPK fertilizer once a year during the growing season, which is typically spring. However, it's important not to overfertilize, as this can cause damage to the cactus.

Remember to follow these instructions for Peruvian apple cactus care and adjust the frequency based on the needs of your individual plant.

Hardiness Zone & More 

When growing indoors, the Cereus repandus prefers average room temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. Hailing all the way from arid regions, it can tolerate slightly higher temperatures, but try to avoid exposing it to extreme heat or cold drafts. It can thrive in average household humidity, which is typically around 40–60%. If your home tends to be very dry, especially during the winter months, you can increase the humidity around the plant by using a humidifier or placing a tray filled with water near the cactus.

For outdoor cultivation, the Peruvian apple cactus is a desert cactus and is generally hardy in USDA zones 9–11, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F to 40°F. It's important to provide good air circulation around the cactus to prevent excessive humidity and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. 

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Peruvian apple cactus (Cereus repandus) is a unique and captivating plant that adds tropical beauty to any space. Its tall, columnar stems and white flowers bloom at night, making it a favorite among plant enthusiasts. This easy-to-care-for plant thrives in well-draining soil and prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some drought but requires regular watering during the growing season and reduced watering in the winter to prevent root rot. The Peruvian apple cactus produces edible fruits resembling small apples, which are sweet and juicy. However, it may take several years for the cactus to reach maturity. 

With the help of the cactus Cereus repandus – Peruvian apple cactus, you'll start to spend less time maintaining your garden and more time taking in its beauty! 

Bloom Season Summer
Botanical Name Cereus repandus
Common Name Peruvian apple cactus, Hedge cactus, Queen of the Night, Giant club cactus
Dormancy Winter
Family Cactaceae
Flower Color White, Yellow, pink
Genus Cereus
Growth Habit Columnar
Growth Rate Fast
Hardiness Zone 9, 10, 11
Mature Size Up to 33 ft. tall
Native Area South America
Plant Type Perennial cactus
Propagation By seeds, stem cuttings
Resistance Drought tolerant, heat resistant, pest resistant, deer resistance
Soil PH 6.5, Acidic, Neutral
Soil Type specialized cactus potting mix
Special Features Edible fruits
Sun Exposure Full sun, partial shade
Toxicity Safe for humans, friendly to dogs, friendly to cats
Watering Needs Low

Pests & Common Problems of Cereus repandus

Cereus repandus (Peruvian apple cactus plants) can be prone to certain pests and common problems. The most common problems are: 

Pests Infestation: Mealybugs and scale insects can infest the cereus repandus. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of these pests and treat them with appropriate insecticides or by manually removing them. 

Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure the soil is well-drained and to avoid excessive watering. The cereus repandus is susceptible to fungal diseases, especially if the plant grows in humid conditions. Provide good air circulation and avoid overwatering to prevent fungal issues. 

Sunburn: Sunburn can occur if the plant is exposed to intense, direct sunlight for extended periods. Provide partial shade or protect your hedgehog cactus during the hottest parts of the day. 

Inadequate light: Inadequate light can cause the cereus repandus to become leggy or have poor growth. Ensure the plant receives enough bright, indirect light for optimal growth. 

Remember to regularly monitor your cereus repandus for any signs of pests or problems and take appropriate action to maintain its health and vitality. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is Cereus repandus used for? 

    The cereus repandus (Peruvian apple cactus) is primarily used as an ornamental plant. Its unique and striking appearance, with its tall columnar stems and beautiful white night-blooming flowers, makes it a popular choice for landscaping and indoor decoration.  Additionally, the edible fruits of the cereus repandus are edible and can be consumed or used to make jams and jellies. However, it's important to note that the fruits may not be as flavorful as those of other cactus species. Overall, the cereus repandus is valued for its aesthetic appeal and occasional culinary use. 

  • What are the characteristics of Cereus repandus? 

    The cereus repandus (Peruvian apple cactus) is a tall, column-like cactus species that can reach up to 33 feet. Its ribbed stems are blue-green and covered in spines, and it produces large, white flowers that bloom at night. Its fruits are oblong-shaped and can range from green to orange or red when ripe. The Peruvian apples are hardy and suitable for arid or desert environments, making them a visually striking and resilient cactus species. 

  • What type of fruit comes from Cereus repandus? 

    The fruit of the Peruvian Apple cactus resembles dragon fruit or pitaya in appearance, but it is totally smooth and spherical and lacks a leafy scale-like structure. When fully mature, its magenta-red exterior will break open to reveal a white, mushy inside flecked with small black seeds like kiwi seeds.

  • Is the Peruvian apple cactus fast-growing? 

    Yes, the Peruvian apple cactus is known for its fast growth rate. Its ability to rapidly grow and spread makes it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers looking to create a lush and vibrant landscape in a relatively short period of time. Verbena flowers don't have much of a scent, but many people think verbena foliage smells lemon-like. Others report the scent as clean and uplifting. And for some, it doesn't smell like anything.

  • Does a Peruvian apple cactus need full sun? 

    Yes, a Peruvian apple cactus thrives in full sun. It requires a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and bloom successfully. Additionally, providing it with ample sunlight helps promote healthy growth and prevents the risk of the cactus becoming weak or leggy.

  • Is the Peruvian apple cactus toxic to cats? 

    Peruvian apple cactus (Cereus peruvianus) is generally not considered toxic to cats. However, it is always recommended to monitor your cat's behavior after exposure to any new plant and consult with a veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms or signs of discomfort.

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