Peruvian Apple Cactus

Cereus repandus

• ​​Common Name: Peruvian Apple Cactus. Other common names: Night-Blooming Cereus Cactus, Apple Cactus, Hedge Cactus, Peruvian Tree Cactus.
• Scientific Name: Cereus repandus
• Family Name: Cactaceae
• Origin: South America
• Height: 15’ – 30’ (growers using plant supports have achieved heights of 110’).
• Width: 6’ – 8’
• Growth: Fast growing.
• Zone: 9A -11
• Light Needs: Full sun.
• Salt Tolerance:  Resistant to salt spray.
• Soil/PH/Texture: Tolerates poor soil and sandy soils that are well-drained, mildly acidic – mildly alkaline (pH 6.1 – 7.8).
• Soil Moisture: Average water needs, water regularly but do not overwater, and let it dry out between waterings.
• Drought Tolerance: High and humidity tolerant as well.
• Pests/Diseases: Scale, snails, slugs and mealybugs.
• Growing Conditions: Easy to grow and low maintenance.
• Characteristics: This cactus has grayish-green to bluish stems that can reach up to 4”-8” in diameter. It blooms in late spring to early fall, fragrant, 2” – 3” showy flowers, rose/mauve to white, edible and are nocturnal. Don’t miss seeing the flowers, each flower only opens for one night! On the outside, the fruits (Peruvian apples or pitaya), are violet-red – yellow and are thorn less. The edible interior, is white with crunchy seeds and tastes great. Of course, this cactus/succulent has horns/prickles/spines, use extreme caution when handling.
• Propagation: By seed or softwood or woody stem cuttings (cut surface should be allowed to callous over before planting).
• Wildlife: Attractive to bees, birds and butterflies. Birds like the fruit.
• Facts: They’re high in Vitamin C, beta-carotene, fiber, and much more. Since they bloom at night you may need to self-pollinate to produce fruit unless you have a lot of night pollinators like bats and moths.
• Designer Considerations: Can be used as a flowering tree, hedge, or windbreak and is perfect for xeriscaping. It also works well for a 3 galllon or larger container plant on a patio.