Tills dark green, desert type, columnar cactus, known as Peruvian apple cactus, comes from Brazil to Argentina. It has 5—9 thick ribs and few branches. The ribs are rounded, with 8—9 stout yellow or reddish- brown spines growing from brown areoles. Nocturnal, funnel-shaped white flowers are produced in summer, which are up to 6 in. (15 cm) long. Outer petals may be tipped green-brown or red.

Size: Height up to 15 ft. (5 m).

Light: Direct sunlight.

Temperature: Normal room; winter minimum 50°F (10°C).

Moisture: Keep moist (but never wet) from spring to fall; in winter apply only enough water to prevent the soil drying out.

Feeding: Use half-strength liquid tomato fertilizer once a month in spring and summer.

Propagation: Sow seed in spring; take cuttings of young branches in late spring or early summer.

Special needs: Give the plant as much direct sun as possible throughout the year to encourage flowering.