Contents
Description
Cereus is a genus of cacti that belongs to the family Cactaceae. It is native to the Americas, with most species found in South America. The plant is known for its night-blooming flowers that are fragrant and beautiful. The flowers of Cereus are pollinated by bats and moths. The plant has a cylindrical shape, and some species can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cereus |
Appearance
Cereus plants have a cylindrical shape and can grow up to 20 feet tall. The stem is green, and the plant has small spines. The flowers are large, showy, and fragrant, usually white or yellow, and bloom at night. The fruit of Cereus is edible and is often used to make jams and jellies.
Care Guide
Cereus plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here is a care guide for the plant:
Water
Water the plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering in the winter. Make sure the soil is well-draining and does not become waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
Cereus plants prefer well-draining, sandy soil.
Sunlight
Place the plant in a bright spot with indirect sunlight.
Hardiness Zones
Cereus plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cereus plants are susceptible to mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. The plant may also develop fungal diseases if the soil is too wet or the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
Cereus plants are native to the Americas, with most species found in South America. The plant prefers dry, arid regions and can be found in deserts, rocky slopes, and hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Cereus plant?
A: Water the plant every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: How tall can a Cereus plant grow?
A: Some species of Cereus can grow up to 20 feet tall.
Q: Can I eat the fruit of Cereus?
A: Yes, the fruit of Cereus is edible and is often used to make jams and jellies.
Q: What kind of soil does Cereus prefer?
A: Cereus plants prefer well-draining, sandy soil.
Related Plants
- Epiphyllum
- Hylocereus
- Selenicereus
References
- “Cereus.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 01 July 2021.
- “Cereus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 01 July 2021.
- “Cereus.” Plant Care Today. Plant Care Today, n.d. Web. 01 July 2021.
