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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Rose cactus
(Pereskia portulacifolia)
Also Known As
Rose cactus, Portulaca-leaved pereskia
About This Plant
Pereskia portulacifolia is a species of cactus native to Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. It is a shrubby, evergreen plant that can grow up to 6 meters in height. It has green, oval-shaped leaves and produces small, pink flowers.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
6-20 feet (1.8-6.1 meters)
Light Requirements
Pereskia portulacifolia prefers full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Humidity Needs
Pereskia portulacifolia prefers low to moderate humidity levels. It can tolerate dry air.
Fertilizing Schedule
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize during the winter months.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune the plant in the spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests for Pereskia portulacifolia include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It is also susceptible to fungal diseases like root rot.
Indoor Size Range
24-36 inches (61-91 cm)
Watering Schedule
Water the plant deeply and then allow the soil to dry out partially before watering again. During the winter months, reduce watering to once a month.
Temperature Range
Pereskia portulacifolia prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C).
Growing Season
Pereskia portulacifolia grows best during the spring and summer months.
Growing Difficulty Level
Pereskia portulacifolia is considered to be an easy plant to grow.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Pereskia portulacifolia is not cold hardy and can only be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9b-11.
Did You Know?
Pereskia portulacifolia is one of the few cactus species that has true leaves, rather than modified stems that serve as leaves.
