Rose Cactus (Pereskia grandifolia): A Leafy, Shrubby Cactus with Rose-Like Flowers

Rose Cactus, also called Ora Pro Nobis or Pray-For-Us, is a primitive cactus that retains true, broad, glossy green leaves and develops a woody, shrubby habit up to 15 feet tall. The stems have areoles with spines. It produces large, showy, rose-like flowers in shades of pink to white, followed by edible, pear-shaped fruits. Native to Brazil, it’s a unique link between cacti and leafy plants, used as a living fence and vegetable (leaves are edible).

Taxonomic Profile

Culture

Full sun to part shade. Fertile, well-drained soil. Regular water; not as drought-tolerant as desert cacti. Frost tender; protect below 30°F (-1°C). Can be pruned as a hedge. Leaves are cooked as a vegetable. Propagate from cuttings or seeds.