Cereus Peruvianus "Monstrosus" | Mescaline cactus
Cereus peruvianus "Monstrosus," better known as the monstrous apple cactus, is a tree-like cactus with many branches. This cactus, which grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 9 through 11, has irregularly ribbed gray-green trunks that can grow up to 4.5 meters long. They also have large, white flowers that bloom at night and edible orange fruits with white flesh.
Light and Temperature Requirements
The Monstrose apple cactus grows best in a hot, sunny environment without shade. Recently transplanted or moved cacti may suffer from sunburn if they cannot gradually acclimate to the higher light intensity or if they are not growing in the same direction as before. In USDA Zone 9, the cactus sometimes needs protection during cold weather. Usually, a cloth draped over the cactus works well enough.
Soil and Location
Cacti grow best in dry, sandy, or gravelly loam soil. If the soil isn’t dry enough, you can add some fine gravel or crushed granite to the planting site and raise the area slightly to allow water to drain better away from the plant’s roots. This cactus is moderately tolerant of salt. Monstrose apple cacti grow indoors or as "test tube plants." They need a pot with plenty of drainage holes and well-draining potting mix. You can buy commercial potting mix specifically for cacti.
Water and Fertilizer
The Monstrose apple cactus, like other members of the cactus family, requires very little water and fertilizer. Water thoroughly about 4 to 6 weeks after planting, and provide additional water every two weeks during the first hot summer to ensure the plant develops well. Before watering again, it’s a good idea to check the soil a few centimeters below the surface to make sure it’s completely dry. During hot, dry summers, cacti need water once or twice a month. Adding a little fertilizer at the start of the growing season helps the Monstrose apple cactus grow, but it is not necessary. Do not water or fertilize the plant from late fall through winter, when conditions are cool and damp.
Potential Problems or Pests
The cactus can suffer from root rot in soil that hasn’t dried out properly or from overwatering. Choose a spot that’s well-drained to prevent this, and water the cactus only when absolutely necessary. Occasional pruning is only necessary to limit the plant’s width as desired and to remove unsightly branches. Pests may include scale insects and mealybugs, which you can control by caring for the cactus as usual and letting natural predators or parasites do the work. For young and highly visible species, you should blow the mealybugs off the cactus with a strong stream of water, or use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
