The Peruvian Apple Cactus: What it is, How to Care for It and How to Look After Them

December, 2023
Darren Spalding

The Peruvian Apple Cactus is a beautiful plant that originates from the Andean regions of Peru. It's not difficult to care for, but it does require a few things in order to thrive and grow successfully. In this article I'm going to give you all the information you need about these incredible plants: what they are, how to care for them, and how to look after them indoors.

What is a Column Cactus?

A column cactus is a type of succulent that originates from Peru. It has spiky, cylindrical shaped stems and is typically green or brown in color. They grow best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15-27°C).

The Peruvian Apple Cactus ia also known as "columnar apple cacti". Columns are just one variety of the large family of succulents called Agavaceae which includes plants such as the giant Saguaro cactus found in North America's deserts. These plants have evolved to store water while they live through periods when their environment does not offer enough humidity to stay healthy - for example during droughts.

How to care for a Peruvian Cactuse

Peruvian cactus would be best plated in a well-lit spot with at least six hours of direct sunlight. When watering, use rain water or distilled water and avoid touching the head since it might create dirt streaks on the plant's body.

It is important to note that columnar apple plants are sensitive to freezing temperatures and will die if exposed for more than 15 minutes. They can tolerate cold weather only when they become dormant during winter months (November - March)

How to look after the Peruvian Apple Cactus indoors

To grow the plant indoors, it's recommended to put them in a pot with good soil and place them near windows that get at least six hours of sunlight.

It is important not to overwater them as they require less water than other plants. Keep an eye on their leaves for signs of mold or fungus which may be caused by too much humidity

Rainwater will keep your Peruvian Cactus healthy

An apple cactus can tolerate cold weather only when they becomes dormant during winter months (November - March)

Do not forget to use rain water or distilled water when watering because tap water might leave dirt streaks on its body!

Can you eat the Peruvian apple cactus fruits?

The fruits of the Peruvian apple cactus are said to be edible but it is not recommended. They contain small amounts of cyanide which can, in large quantities cause severe poisoning and even death (if ingested).

How much light does a peruvian apple cactus need?

If you are struggling for light within your home, you can rotate your plant during the day so that it can get light from different places.

If you want to know how much light your peruvian apple cactus need, just open up one of its leaves and see if there is a green tinge on the inner-side of the leaf. If yes then this means they are getting enough sunlight!

When winter comes around, all Peruvian Cacti will enter their dormant stage (December - March). This time period should be spent in an area with cool temperatures because anything warmer than 47 degrees Fahrenheit could kill them or cause irreparable damage to their skin cells which leads to discoloration.

Does Peruvian apple cactus have spines?

The Apple Cactus also known as the Peruvian Apple does have spines, but they are not as large and thick as some of the other types.

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