Hedge cactus

Hedge cactus Care

Cereus hildmannianus

What is the plant

Cereus hildmannianus is a species of cactus from southern South America. Its distribution is uncertain but probably includes Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Argentina. The plant has also been introduced outside its native ranges and become invasive.

The Peruvian apple cactus or Hedge cactus (Cereus hildmannianus) is a perennial treelike cactus that grows like a candelabrum with numerous columnar branches, 5-10(-15) m high with distinct trunks. It produces numerous showy white flowers 10-15 cm across that are followed by goose-egg-size succulent fruits containing a delicately sweet white pulp with delightfully crunchy black seeds. It possess the added virtue that its stems are free of spines and can be handled it without worrying about impalement. Two subspecies are recognized.

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Humidity

Dry

Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

10°C - 15°C

Hardiness zone

10a - 11b

Difficulty

Easy

Hibernation

Cold Period

How to Care for the Plant

Water
Water regularly in summer, but do not overwater and allow to dry fully before watering again. Its roots are easily lost in pots that stay damp for any length of time. It should not be watered at all in winter. In the rest period no high atmospheric humidity. Care must be taken with watering as they tends to become swollen and untidy in growth habit if given too much water and shade.
Fertilizer
During the growing season enrich the soil using a fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorous, but poor in nitrogen, because this chemical element doesn’t help the development of succulent plants, making them too soft and full of water.
Sunlight
Light shade when young, full sun later. Outside it likes strong sunshine, but is tolerant and do well with light shade during the hot Summer months, inside it needs bright light, and some direct sun.

Disease diagnosis

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Soil
For pot culture it needs standard cactus soil. Outdoors needs well drained spots, with deep soil, but will still thrive in less than ideal conditions. The species is sensitive to salinity.
Temperature
The plant is reputedly sensitive to frost , but less so if kept on the dry side prior to, and during, cold weather (hardy to -5°C for short periods). However, some warmth throughout the year will increase the grower's success (minimum 5° to 8°C during rest season).
Container
Use a pot with good drainage. Since they are big-sized plants, they need plenty of space for their roots. Repotting should be done every other year, or when the plant has outgrown its pot.