Leaf Cactus

Pereskia (pe-RES-kee-ah)

Family: Cactaceae Unknown Vine (vertical)

The rose cactus is a genus of tropical cacti that are native to South America from Venezuela to Paraguay and has only 4 accepted species; many leafy cacti formerly included in this genus are now placed in other genera. It is a member of the cactus family (Cactaceae). The plants are found in dry forests and come in a variety of forms, ranging from a hedge, houseplant, shrub, and vine. Pereskia is the only genus in the cactus family that has non-succulent leaves. It is deciduous, multi-branched, has a woody trunk and branches, thin stems, and flat, fleshy leaves. These plants have spines that develop from the areoles and have the same type of flowers as other plants in the cactus family. Because of their large size and tropical requirements, they are not usually seen in cultivation. Many scientists believe the rose cactus is the ancestor of the Cactaceae family, and other cacti lost their leaves as they adapted to dry conditions. The genus name, Pereskia , honors Nicholas Claude Fabre de Peiresc, who was a French 16th-century naturalist, botanist and archaeologist. These plants prefer moist, well-drained, rich, organic soil in full sun or part shade and are drought tolerant. They require very little maintenance, but they may be pruned or shaped. The leaves will drop if the temperatures are below 50 degrees F. It can be propagated from seed. fresh stem cuttings planted in soil and can also be rooted in water. The leaves are non-succulent, glossy, green and occasionally tinged with purple and have entire margins. The stems have areoles and spines, and their floral cups are like other cacti. The flowers are ¾ to 3 inches in diameter and look similar to a wild rose and are found mostly in shades white, pink, rose, or purple. Depending on the species the flower color may vary. Most species are cultivated for their flowers and edible fruit. The fruit is usually yellow-green and pear-shaped, but this may also vary depending on the species. Some species can be grown as an ornamental in containers or on a trellis. Some may also be grown as privacy hedge. The flowers will attract pollinators, and the fruits will attract birds and small mammals. Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: No serious insect or disease problems. Monitor for mealybugs and scale. Overwatering can cause root rot. VIDEO Created by Laura Barth for "Houseplants, Succulents, and Cacti," a plant identification course created in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

Source: NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox ↗ NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox, 65 attributes.