Cereus fernambucensis

Cereus fernambucensis is an evergreen cactus in the family Cactaceae. It grows wild in northern and eastern Brazil. Useful Tropical Plants calls it cardo-ananá. This species grows in warm regions with a seasonal dry spell. Its coastal sites include sand just inland from the beach. It also grows on rocks close to the sea. Some plants grow where sea spray can reach them. Its range reaches about 1,312 feet [400 metres] above sea level.

This succulent shrub forms low, thick clumps with many branches. Its stems creep along the ground and spread outwards. Useful Tropical Plants lists a height of about 1 foot [0.3 metres]. Its fuller account gives an upper height of 1.3 feet [0.4 metres]. Clumps can span 13–16 feet [4–5 metres] across. These figures describe a low plant with a wide reach. The source does not separate garden sizes from wild sizes. Its spreading stems define its form more than its height.

The flowers open at night, rather than during the day. The supplied species account gives no month range for bloom. It describes narrow, oblong fruit with a purple-red skin. Each fruit measures about 0.2 feet [0.06–0.07 metres] long. Ripe fruit splits down one side, showing the flesh within. The flesh is white and holds black seeds. People gather the wild fruit for local food use. They eat the fruit raw; no cooking method is given.

In gardens, this cactus needs sun and soil that drains well. It prefers acid soil with a pH below 6. Once plants have settled in, they withstand drought well. The account places it in subtropical and tropical growing zones. It gives no frost limit or winter hardiness rating. Growers can raise new plants from seed or cuttings. People also grow it for its looks, apart from harvesting fruit. Its broad clumps need room despite their low height.

The cited 2017 IUCN assessment classed this species as Least Concern. It has a broad range and occurs in protected sites. Yet habitat loss has caused some local groups to shrink. The source lists no known hazards or medicinal uses. That hazard statement does not establish safety for pets. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases.