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; which is a vibrant member of the Cereus genus. It is more commonly referred to as Cereus peruvianus. The Peruvian apple cactus gets its name from its resemblance to an apple.  It's a fun and descriptive name that highlights one of the unique characteristics of this cactus. 

Native to South America, the specific term "repandus" (REP-an-dus), which refers to the slightly waved and uneven ribs, means "turned up or back." It has several other common names, such as hedge cactus, Queen of the Night, and giant club cactus. 

 The Peruvian apple cactus is a magnificent and eye-catching succulent that belongs to the Cactus family. This Peruvian cactus is known for its impressive size and unique appearance. It is a perennial cactus and has a tree-like appearance, often with many upright or slightly curved branches above, often with distinct trunks up to 33 feet tall. 

The flowers of the Peruvian apple cactus bloom at night, 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. Nocturnal, each flower opens for just one night and then shrivels up. During the warm season, Cereus repandus produces several flower flushes. 

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.  

Peruvian Apple Cactus – Night Blooming Cereus Care 

Watering Needs 

In addition to its striking appearance, the Peruvian apple cactus 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 cactus to withstand periods of drought and makes it a low-maintenance plant for succulent enthusiasts. 

During the growing season, which is typically spring and summer, you can water the 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 cactus 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 plant. 

Light Requirements 

The Peruvian apple cactus thrives in bright, full sun to partial shade for at least 4-6 hours daily. It enjoys being placed near a sunny window where it can receive bright light, but make sure to protect it from direct sun, especially during the hottest parts of the day. 

 If you notice that your cereus cactus is stretching or leaning toward the light, it might be an indication that it needs more sunlight. 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. 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. 

You see, too much moisture in the soil can literally make or break your little green friend. Too much water and BAM! You've got root and stem rot faster than you can say "succulent." 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 up 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 Peruvian apple cactus does not require frequent feeding. You can use a balanced NPK fertilizer once a year during the growing season, which is typically spring. However, it's important not to over-fertilize, 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 

The Peruvian apple cactus is a desert cactus and is generally hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F to 40°F. It prefers warmer temperatures and thrives in a range of 70°F to 90°F. 

As for humidity, this cactus is native to arid regions and can tolerate low humidity levels. However, it can also adapt to moderate humidity levels. It's important to provide good air circulation around the cactus to prevent excessive humidity and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. 

Overall, the Peruvian apple cactus is a resilient plant that can handle a variety of temperature and humidity conditions.

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

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. 

FAQs - Cereus repandus Plant

What is Cereus repandus used for? 

The cereus repandus, also known as the 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, also known as the Peruvian apple cactus, is a tall and column cactus species that can reach heights of up to 33 feet. It has ribbed, thick stems that are typically blue-green in color and covered in clusters of spines. The cactus produces large, showy white flowers that bloom at night and emit a pleasant fragrance.  

The fruits of the cereus repandus are oblong-shaped and can vary in color, ranging from green to orange or red when ripe. The Peruvian apples are a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures and are well-suited for arid or desert environments. Overall, the cereus repandus is 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. 

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 peruvianus repandus'

sku: 1798

4 reviews
Regular price$ 9.99
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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.

  • In stock, ready to ship
  • Inventory on the way

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.

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.

BUY HEAT PACKS HERE

**FREE HEAT PACK WITH ORDERS OVER $50 before taxes and shipping- BY REQUEST ONLY, PLEASE MAKE A NOTE ON YOUR ORDER.

To prevent plants from freezing while in transit, orders placed for areas with extreme severe freezing temperatures will be held for shipment until it is safe to ship.

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, and 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; which is a vibrant member of the Cereus genus. It is more commonly referred to as Cereus peruvianus. The Peruvian apple cactus gets its name from its resemblance to an apple.  It's a fun and descriptive name that highlights one of the unique characteristics of this cactus. 

Native to South America, the specific term "repandus" (REP-an-dus), which refers to the slightly waved and uneven ribs, means "turned up or back." It has several other common names, such as hedge cactus, Queen of the Night, and giant club cactus. 

 The Peruvian apple cactus is a magnificent and eye-catching succulent that belongs to the Cactus family. This Peruvian cactus is known for its impressive size and unique appearance. It is a perennial cactus and has a tree-like appearance, often with many upright or slightly curved branches above, often with distinct trunks up to 33 feet tall. 

The flowers of the Peruvian apple cactus bloom at night, 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. Nocturnal, each flower opens for just one night and then shrivels up. During the warm season, Cereus repandus produces several flower flushes. 

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.  

Peruvian Apple Cactus – Night Blooming Cereus Care 

Watering Needs 

In addition to its striking appearance, the Peruvian apple cactus 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 cactus to withstand periods of drought and makes it a low-maintenance plant for succulent enthusiasts. 

During the growing season, which is typically spring and summer, you can water the 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 cactus 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 plant. 

Light Requirements 

The Peruvian apple cactus thrives in bright, full sun to partial shade for at least 4-6 hours daily. It enjoys being placed near a sunny window where it can receive bright light, but make sure to protect it from direct sun, especially during the hottest parts of the day. 

 If you notice that your cereus cactus is stretching or leaning toward the light, it might be an indication that it needs more sunlight. 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. 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. 

You see, too much moisture in the soil can literally make or break your little green friend. Too much water and BAM! You've got root and stem rot faster than you can say "succulent." 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 up 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 Peruvian apple cactus does not require frequent feeding. You can use a balanced NPK fertilizer once a year during the growing season, which is typically spring. However, it's important not to over-fertilize, 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 

The Peruvian apple cactus is a desert cactus and is generally hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, which means it can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F to 40°F. It prefers warmer temperatures and thrives in a range of 70°F to 90°F. 

As for humidity, this cactus is native to arid regions and can tolerate low humidity levels. However, it can also adapt to moderate humidity levels. It's important to provide good air circulation around the cactus to prevent excessive humidity and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. 

Overall, the Peruvian apple cactus is a resilient plant that can handle a variety of temperature and humidity conditions.

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

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. 

FAQs - Cereus repandus Plant

What is Cereus repandus used for? 

The cereus repandus, also known as the 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, also known as the Peruvian apple cactus, is a tall and column cactus species that can reach heights of up to 33 feet. It has ribbed, thick stems that are typically blue-green in color and covered in clusters of spines. The cactus produces large, showy white flowers that bloom at night and emit a pleasant fragrance.  

The fruits of the cereus repandus are oblong-shaped and can vary in color, ranging from green to orange or red when ripe. The Peruvian apples are a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures and are well-suited for arid or desert environments. Overall, the cereus repandus is 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. 

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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