Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Allow soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Also known as Barbados Shrub · Barbados-Gooseberry · Blade-Apple Cactus
Barbados gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata) is a cactus with succulent leaves and sharp spines, producing edible fruits and used ornamentally.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily
Allow soil to dry between waterings
50% intensity
Reduce frequency in winter
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-27°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures but protect from frost.
Moderate feeding during growing season
50% intensity
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half, monthly in spring/summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Allow soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot. Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Prune to shape the plant, remove dead or damaged stems, and control its size. Pruning also encourages bushier growth and can stimulate flowering. Use clean, sharp tools for best results. Can be pruned hard if necessary.
Propagate from stem cuttings, which root easily. Take cuttings in spring or summer, allow the cut end to callus for a few days, and then plant in well-draining soil. Can also be grown from seed.
Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Barbados Gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata)
Where Barbados Gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Pereskia |
| Species | Pereskia aculeata |
Similar in genus Pereskia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
