Genus Cereus is a plant belonging to the family Cactaceae. It is known for its tall and cylindrical stem, which can grow up to several meters high. Synonyms for genus Cereus include Cereus sanguineus, Cereus tricostatus, and Cereus jamacaru, among others. These plants are commonly found in arid regions of South and Central America, and have adapted to survive in hot and dry environments. Their stems are covered in small spines, which help to conserve water by reducing surface area and shielding the plant from predators. In addition to their ornamental value, some species of genus Cereus are also used in traditional medicine for their antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.