How to Care for Pereskia aculeata (Barbados Gooseberry)

Korean name: 페레스키아(목기린)

Pereskia aculeata (Barbados Gooseberry) photo

This is a leafy cactus with broad, bright green leaves. It grows as a vine with spines and occasionally produces small white flowers. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors and is relatively easy for beginners.

Key facts

Category: Cactus
Difficulty: Easy
Where to keep: indoors or outdoors
Native to: Central America
Growth rate: Fast
Pets: Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.
Traits: leafy cactus, broad leaves, vine, easy care, spiny
Also known as: Barbados Gooseberry, Leaf Cactus

Care Guide

Light: Prefers bright indirect light, not direct sunlight.
Watering: Water thoroughly when the topsoil feels dry.
Soil: Use well-draining soil.
Humidity: Maintain moderate humidity.
Temperature: 18~27°C
Fertilizer: Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during growing season.

Common questions

How often should you water Pereskia aculeata?

Water thoroughly when the topsoil feels dry. Roughly every 7 days is the baseline; adjust for the season and the spot it sits in.

Where should you keep Pereskia aculeata?

Light: Prefers bright indirect light, not direct sunlight. You can grow it indoors or outdoors. Soil: Use well-draining soil.

Is Pereskia aculeata safe around pets?

Mildly toxic, so keep pets from chewing on it.

Is Pereskia aculeata good for beginners?

Difficulty: Easy. It is forgiving enough for a first plant. Temperature: 18~27°C. Humidity: Maintain moderate humidity. Fertiliser: Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during growing season.