A tall columnar blue-green cactus with prominent ribs and spined areoles, opening large fragrant white night flowers followed by edible red fruit. A bold vertical accent and living hedge in dry gardens.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 5 m H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Peruvian Apple Cactus
Cereus repandus is a moderate-growing succulent in the Cactaceae family. It reaches around 5 m tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen and silver-grey foliage. White flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Peruvian Apple Cactus
Peruvian Apple Cactus suits arid and semi-arid, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Peruvian Apple Cactus does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 90 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Peruvian Apple Cactus is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Peruvian Apple Cactus after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Peruvian Apple Cactus in the garden
Peruvian Apple Cactus earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and a fast screen or informal hedge.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Peruvian Apple Cactus with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Good to know
It is thorny — useful as a barrier, but wear gloves when pruning.
Buying Peruvian Apple Cactus
Plant Sale lists Peruvian Apple Cactus as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.