ROSE CACTUS AKA PERESKIA GRANDIFOLIA/RHODOCACTUS GRANDIFOLIA. (EDIBLE LEAVES)

Description: Pereskia grandifolia is more commonly known as the Rose Cactus but has many other names such as Cancer Cactus, Pray for Us (Ora Pro Nobis) Guamacho Morado, and Quiabento Sabonete. The plant earned the name Cancer Cactus because according to tradition it was used in severe cases of cancer which did not respond to any other treatments other than prayer. There is research in the literature for those wishing to do further investigation. Rose Cactus is botanically classified as a cactus, but grows as a shrub or small tree between 6 and 16 feet tall. Grows well in zones 10 through 11 and is usually evergreen but can be deciduous if temperatures drop below 50 F. A rounded crown is typical of this species. Pereskia is very common and native to areas of eastern Brazil and many other areas of South and Central America where it is cultivated for it's very attractive rose-like flowers. Flowers can range from pink to purplish-pink, up to 2 inches in diameter with yellow stamens in the center of multiple flower clusters that can be seen blooming especially during the summertime. A fleshy pear shaped fruit that ranges from 2 to 4 inches long follows the flower clusters. The fruit of this variety is green at maturation but some fruits can mature yellow or red. Leaves of the Rose Cactus are edible and may be added to salads or cooked like spinach. Black to brown colored spines, typical of Cactus, can be found rising from the areolas in the leaf axils. SOIL: Like many cactus, Rose cactus can tolerate fair to poor quality soil but will do best in a rich and well drained soil. It has been known to perform best in a mix of 2 parts peat moss, 1 part loam and 2 parts sand or perlite. I have grown mine in cactus soil mix and it does extremely well so there is no need to buy separate soils and mix them unless you enjoy the extra work and cost involved. During the hotter months, despite the fact that it is in the cactus family, this plant will do best if you can keep the soil moist. SUNLIGHT: Full sun to partial sun allows Rose cactus to thrive. It does however tend to appreciate afternoon shade in excessively heated summers. WATERING: Like most cactus, Rose cactus is somewhat drought tolerant but does best if the soil is kept moist, especially during very hot summers. Water should not be allowed to pool in the roots of this plant or it can suffer root rot which is so typical of many plants but especially the cactus family. Water when the soil is dry by using the finger test. Stick your middle finger into the soil bed as far as you can and if your finger comes out totally dry then it's time to water. Restrict water during the winter time and if your Rose cactus is potted bring it indoors if temperatures drop below 50 F. FERTILIZER/FEEDING: Most cactus do not need fertilizing and will do well but if you want to stimulate more blooms then any good cactus fertilizer will bring out the best in your Rose cactus. PROPAGATION: Once your cactus puts on size you may easily take cuttings 3 to 5 inches long and place them directly in any well draining potting mix or cactus soil and you will be able to have more plant growing within 2 to 4 weeks. Take your cuttings just below a leaf node and place the cutting in moist, well draining soil in a shaded area while it roots. There is no need to use rooting powders or liquids because Rose cactus, like most cactus, roots very easily. I grow my own plants and will provide a live rooted plant similar to the one seen in the main picture. Your plant will be shipped directly to you within 1 to 3 days of your order if received no later than 12pm Wednesday. You will receive your plant in a moist biodegradable pouch in a soil-less medium, (perlite/peat/vermiculite) securely packaged and ready to transplant. There is no need to remove the plant from the pouch which will break down naturally once planted. Removing the plant from the pouch might shock the root system and slow or kill your plant. These are very hardy succulents that are generally hard to kill (you practically have to shoot them with a gun!! :). Nevertheless, I take pride in shipping healthy plants because I love gardening and your satisfaction is my primary concern. Once received, please water slightly if the soil-less medium is dry then acclimate slowly to sunlight for best results. I do not ship outside of the United States. Be mindful of cold temperatures in your area. REMEMBER these are succulents! They like it hot but do not allow your plants to sit in a hot mailbox for long periods which can dehydrate, shock and kill your plants. I cannot be responsible if you leave your plant baking in a hot mailbox for hours. Please send photo's of the plants and the container immediately if plants arrive damaged by the postal service so I may address the issue as soon as possible. NOTE WELL: I BOX AND SHIP MY PLANTS AS SECURELY AS POSSIBLE TO ENSURE YOUR PLANT ARRIVES AS HEALTHY AND VIABLE AS POSSIBLE.DUE TO SHIPPING STRESS SOME LEAVES MAY FALL OFF THE PLANTS AND THEY MAY APPEAR SLIGHTLY WILTED ON ARRIVAL. DO NOT BE DECEIVED INTO THINKING THE PLANTS ARE DEAD. THESE ARE SUCCULENTS WHICH STORE WATER SO THEY CAN SURVIVE DROUGHT LIKE CONDITIONS AND STILL BE REVIVED ONCE WATERED (IF NECESSARY) THEN TRANSFERRED TO SOIL. HAPPY GARDENING!!!! :)

Price: 25 USD

Location: Cape Coral, Florida

End Time: 2023-12-16T16:56:51.000Z

Shipping Cost: 0 USD