Opuntia

Prickly Pear Cactus

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Opuntia spp., known as prickly pear, features flattened stem segments called cladodes covered in spines. Native to the arid Americas, it produces vibrant flowers and edible fruits. Drought-tolerant succulents requiring high light exposure for optimal health.
yard Succulents plants wb_sunny Sun pets Not pet-safe
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Plant Details

Common Name Prickly Pear Cactus
Family Cactaceae
Genus Opuntia
Origin Americas
Blooming Late spring to early autumn, depending on species and light exposure
Leaf Color Grey-green to blue-green
Sunlight Sun
Category Succulents plants
Pet Friendly close No
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Care & Maintenance

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Soil

Cactus mix with high drainage, perlite and pumice

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Watering

Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce in winter dormancy. Avoid wetting pads directly if possible.

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Sunlight & Care

Requires full sun to prevent etiolation. Indoors needs bright south-facing window.

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Fertilization

Diluted cactus fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer). Stop in autumn/winter.

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Pruning

Remove damaged or dead cladodes carefully using tongs/gloves due to spines.

Pest Control Mealybug Scale Insect

These are the insects and pathogens that commonly interact with this plant, including pests, parasites, and organisms typically associated with its care.

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Seasonal Periods

local_florist Flowering Period 5 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
agriculture Harvesting Period 3 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
eco Leaf Persistence 12 months
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
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Growing Parameters

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Temperature
50° – 104°
Fahrenheit
Ideal ambient air temperature range for healthy growth
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Humidity
20% – 60%
% relative
Optimal relative air humidity the plant thrives in
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Light (LUX)
2500 – 60000
Lux
Ambient illuminance level at the plant's surface
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Light (PAR)
2000 – 3500
mmol/m²/s
Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensity
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Soil Moisture
10% – 40%
% volumetric
Water content in the growing medium
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Soil EC
350 – 1500
mS/cm
Electrical conductivity (nutrient concentration in soil water)
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Common Problems

Something wrong with your Opuntia? Select a symptom to diagnose and fix the issue.

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