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Description
Cereus Repandus, commonly known as Peruvian Apple Cactus, is a large, columnar cactus that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It is native to South America and is known for its impressive size and beautiful flowers. The cactus has a thick, cylindrical stem that can grow up to 30 cm in diameter and is covered in spines. The stem is green when young and turns brown as it ages. Cereus Repandus blooms in the summer, producing large, white flowers that open at night and close during the day.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Cereus |
Appearance
The Peruvian Apple Cactus is a tall, columnar cactus that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It has a thick, cylindrical stem that is covered in spines. The stem is green when young and turns brown as it ages. The cactus produces large, white flowers that open at night and close during the day. The flowers are followed by edible fruit that is green when young and turns yellow when ripe.
Care Guide
Water: Cereus Repandus should be watered regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. In winter, reduce watering to once a month.
Fertilization: Fertilize the cactus with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: Cereus Repandus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss is recommended.
Sunlight: The cactus prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Cereus Repandus is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cereus Repandus is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The cactus is also prone to root rot if overwatered, so be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Cereus Repandus is native to South America and is found in the Andes Mountains. It grows in rocky, well-draining soil and can tolerate high temperatures and drought conditions. The cactus is also commonly cultivated in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cereus Repandus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the cactus can be grown indoors if given enough light and space.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cereus Repandus?
A: Fertilize the cactus once a month during the growing season.
Q: How long does it take for Cereus Repandus to flower?
A: The cactus typically flowers in the summer, but it can take several years for it to reach flowering maturity.
Q: Is Cereus Repandus toxic to pets?
A: The cactus is not toxic to pets, but its spines can cause injury if ingested or touched.
Related Plants
- Cereus Peruvianus
- Cereus Monstrose
- Cereus Hildmannianus
References
- “Cereus repandus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c400. Accessed 10 May 2021.
- “Peruvian Apple Cactus.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/peruvian-apple-cactus-care-1902746. Accessed 10 May 2021.
- “Cereus repandus.” Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cereus_repandus. Accessed 10 May 2021.
