Care of the cactus Pereskia or Lemon vine |
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The genus Pereskia, family Cactaceae, comprises 20 tropical species of cactus with leaves originating in America, from Mexico to Argentina. Some species are: Pereskia aculeata, Pereskia grandiflora, Pereskia sacharosa, Pereskia quisqueyana, Pereskia guamacho. Common names: Rose cacti, Lemon vine, Leaf cacti. This species is native to San Luis Potosí, Mexico. They are curious cacti that look like bushes and that reach 7 meters (22.9 feet) in height. They have a woody trunk and round or lanceolate leaves as well as axillary areoles (buds that give rise to spines). They produce showy flowers with pink petals and yellow stamens. They are used as indoor plants, in beds, in rockeries and in large pots for terraces and balconies. The Pereskia needs full sun exposure and a warm climate. They do not resist temperatures below 8 ºC (46.4 ºF). Climbing species need supports to climb. The soil must be well drained and rich in humus. The planting is done in spring. Water regularly in spring and summer waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Reduce watering in fall and do not water in winter. Fertilize every 15 days with mineral fertilizer from mid-spring to late summer. They are sensitive plants to excess of irrigation. They are propagated by cuttings in late summer or by seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the cactus Pereskia or Lemon vine |
 Pereskia grandiflora  Pereskia grandiflora  Pereskia grandiflora  Pereskia aculeata  Pereskia aculeata |