Cereus peruvianus, also known as the Peruvian Apple Cactus, is a cactus native to Peru. The plant has long, spiny stems and blooms white flowers in the summertime.
Cereus peruvianus is a popular houseplant and is easy to care for, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
Some of the common household names of Cereus peruvianus are:
- Peruvian Apple Cactus.
- Peruvian Torch Cactus
- Night Blooming Cereus
- Queen of the Night
- Large-Flowered Peruvian Apple Cactus
It got its name Night Blooming Cereus because this type of cactus blooms only at night. Its large, white flowers open for only a few hours before closing again.
The Queen of the Night is another name for the Night Blooming Cereus.
The large-Flowered Peruvian Apple Cactus is a hybrid of the Peruvian Apple Cactus and the Peruvian Torch Cactus.
It has large, showy flowers that can be any color from white to pink to purple.
Quick Facts On Cereus Peruvianus
- Family: Cactaceae
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Temperature: 65° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Deep watering every two weeks; drought-tolerant
- Fertilizer: Low-nitrogen fertilizer. Apply sparingly
- Propagation: Cuttings or seeds
- Common Problems: Mealybugs can be a problem
Cereus Peruvianus Care
The Cereus peruvianus is an easy-to-care-for succulent plant.
Here are the things you need to consider when growing and caring for one.
What Does The Peruvian Apple Cactus Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
The Cereus peruvianus is a large, fast-growing cactus that can grow up to 20′ to 25′ feet tall, with green stems growing from 6″ to 8″ inches in diameter.
The Peruvian Torch Cactus’s variety is smaller, reaching only 6′ to 12′ feet, and has a more rounded shape.
When Does The Peruvian Apple Cactus Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The flowers of the Peruvian Apple Cactus are white and have a sweet fragrance.
Its flowers open at night and close in the morning, hence the other common name, night blooming cereus.
It has a columnar shape and produces large, apple-like fruit.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
The plant can be grown in full sun or partial shade.
However, Cereus peruvianus also enjoys bright, indirect light and can even tolerate some direct sunlight.
Nonetheless, too much direct sun will cause the plant to sunburn. If your plant looks pale or has yellowed leaves, it will likely get too much sun. Move it to a shadier spot.
How And When To Water And Fertilize Peruvian Apple Cactus?
Cereus peruvianus does not require much water or fertilizer. The plant is drought-tolerant and can go for several weeks without water.
However, during the growing season (spring and summer), the plant will appreciate a deep watering once every two weeks.
Be sure to allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. And only water when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilizing is unnecessary, but if you choose to fertilize your plant, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer and apply it sparingly.
Too much fertilizer will burn the roots of the plant.
For feeding, fertilizer can be applied in the spring and summer.
What Is The Best Soil For Cereus Peruvianus, And When Should You Transplant?
Cereus peruvianus is not a fussy plant regarding soil requirement but does bs in well-draining soil.
A cactus or succulent potting mix will work well. Be sure to use a pot with drainage holes to prevent the roots from sitting in water.e
The plant should be transplanted in the spring.
Does Cereus Peruvianus Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
No, Cereus Peruvianus plant does not require special grooming or maintenance.
How To Propagate Night Blooming Cereus?
Peruvian Apple cactus or night-blooming cereus is easy to propagate from stem cuttings.
Simply do the following:
- Take a cutting about 6″ inches long.
- Allow the cut end to dry for a few days to callus over for a few days before planting.
- Be sure to plant the cutting in a well-draining cactus mix and water it sparingly until it is established.
Cereus Peruvianus Pests And Diseases
Cereus peruvianus is generally very pest and disease resistant. However, there are a few problems that can occur.
One common problem is root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil.
If you think your Cereus peruvianus may have root rot, look for the following signs:
- Wilting or drooping leaves
- Leaves that are brown or black
- Soil that is wet and muddy
- Stems that are soft and mushy
Remove the plant from the pot and check the roots if you see any of these signs.
If black or mushy, you will need to trim them away and replant them in fresh soil.
Another problem is stem rot, which is caused by moisture on the stems. This can happen if you water from the top instead of the bottom of the plant sitting in the water.
To prevent stem rot, clean water from the bottom and allow the plant to drain before putting it back in the pot.
If you see any of the following signs, your plant may have stem rot:
- Wilting or drooping leaves
- Leaves that are brown or black
- Stems that are soft and mushy
- Mushy or black spots on the stems
If you think your plant has stem rot, cut away the affected areas and replant in fresh soil.
Cereus peruvianus is also susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap from plants.
They can cause yellowing or stunted growth.
To get rid of mealybugs, wipe them off with a damp cloth or use insecticidal soap.
Spider mites are tiny spider-like creatures that spin webs on the undersides of leaves.
They can cause yellowing or browning of the leaves and stunted growth.
To get rid of spider mites, you can either spray them with water or use insecticidal soap.
Suggested Night Blooming Cereus Uses
Cereus Peruvianus makes a great accent plant or container plant. It can also be used in xeriscaping.
Xeriscaping is a type of gardening that uses drought-resistant plants.
This plant is also a good choice for beginners, as it is easy to care for and does not require much water or fertilizer.
Peruvian Apple cactus is beautiful and easy to care for plant that makes a great addition to any home.
With its striking spines and fragrant flowers, it is sure to add interest to any space.
Thanks for reading, and happy gardening!