Plant Details

• Botanical NameCactus - Opuntia Prickly Pear (genus Opuntia)
• Common NameCactus - Opuntia (Prickly Pear, Nopal)
• Size & GrowthTypically 2–6 ft tall and wide; clump-forming. In warm deserts, some species/varieties can reach 8–12+ ft over time.
• Hardiness ZonesUSDA 8–11 generally; cold-hardy selections to 5–7 if kept dry in winter.
• Foliage TypeEvergreen to semi-evergreen succulent pads (cladodes); may defoliate/retreat in severe cold for hardy species.
• Bloom TimeLate spring to early summer; fruit (tunas) ripen late summer to fall.
• Growth RateModerate, faster with heat and excellent drainage; slower in cool or wet climates.
• Light RequirementsFull sun (6–8+ hours). Indoors, a very bright south or west window is essential.
• Attracts PollinatorsYes—bees and native pollinators visit abundant pollen-rich blooms.
• Indoor FriendlyCan be grown indoors with maximum light; best as a bright-window or sunroom plant. Reduce watering substantially indoors.
• Container FriendlyExcellent in sturdy, shallow containers with cactus mix; use a heavy pot to prevent tipping; ensure ample drainage holes.
• Deer ResistantYes—spines and glochids deter browsing by deer and rabbits.
• Pet WarningSpines and tiny glochids can injure pets and people; generally considered non-toxic but mechanically hazardous. Keep out of high-traffic areas.
• FragrantNot notably fragrant; flowers are usually unscented to very lightly scented.
• Cut FlowerNot typically used as a cut flower; blooms are short-lived. Fruit and pads are edible when properly prepared.
• Grows Well WithGrows Well With Agave, Yucca, Hesperaloe, Dasylirion, Delosperma (ice plant), Sedum, Lavender, Rosemary, Salvia greggii, Penstemon, ornamental grasses (e.g., Muhlenbergia, Blue Fescue).

Care Tips

• Planting InstructionsChoose a full-sun site with excellent drainage. If planting a pad, let the cut end callus 7–10 days, then set upright and backfill with gritty soil; top-dress with gravel to keep the crown dry and prevent rot.
• Soil MoistureWater deeply but infrequently. Allow soil to dry fully between waterings. Minimal to no water in winter; increase only during hot active growth.
• Soil TypeFast-draining cactus/succulent mix amended with 30–50% mineral grit (pumice, coarse sand, or perlite). Tolerates neutral to slightly alkaline pH and poor, rocky soils.
• HumidityPrefers low humidity and excellent air circulation. Avoid prolonged dampness around pads and joints.
• Pruning InstructionsPrune to shape or remove damaged pads by cutting at the joint. Wear thick gloves and use tongs. Pads root easily if propagated in warm, dry conditions.
• Winter CareKeep very dry. In cold/rainy climates, provide rain cover or move containers to a bright, cool, frost-free spot. Hardy types tolerate freezing when soil is sharply drained and dry.
• Planting DepthSet pads shallowly—bury the callused end 1–2 inches; keep most of the pad above soil line and the crown slightly elevated.
• FertilizationLight feeder. Apply a diluted, low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once in late spring (optional again in early summer). Do not fertilize in fall or winter.
• Special CareHandle with care—glochids are barbed and persistent. Watch for cochineal scale (white cottony patches); treat with a strong water spray or dab with isopropyl alcohol. Use a sturdy container and consider staking heavy pads to prevent breakage.