 |
Yes,
this is a true cactus. Though it bears large leaves, its clusters
of fierce spines and pink, rose-like blooms indicate its affinities.
The genus Pereskia includes the most primitive living members of the Cactus
Family. They do freeze to the ground in severe winters, but are merely
deciduous in mild ones. Either way, they resume growth in mid- to
late-March and can grow 4' to 6' high and wide (but much larger after a
mild winter or in a protected site). Grows in full sun to half-day
sun. Looks best if given a deep watering every week during a dry
summer. Plant 2 inches deeper in the ground than their current soil-line
and protect with a 12" cone of pine-bark mulch in late fall at their base.
(Feed with 3 to 5 Agriform
21-gram,
2-year fertilizer tablets at the bottom of the hole at planting time.) |