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. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 90 cm apart.
Watering & feeding
Peruvian Apple Cactus handles dry conditions well once established. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
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. Its ongoing care level 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
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate as Peruvian Apple Cactus. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
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. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
