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Details
The Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia spp.), also known as Indian Fig Opuntia or Barberry Fig, is a versatile heirloom plant prized for its striking appearance, edible fruit, and medicinal properties. Adorned with beautiful yellow flowers, it produces nutrient-rich fruits (tunas) and edible pads (nopales), both of which have been staples in traditional cuisines and remedies. This drought-tolerant succulent thrives in hot, arid environments but can also be grown in containers in cooler climates, making it an excellent choice for edible landscaping. Hardy and easy to grow, it is found as far north as Wisconsin, flourishing in prairies, meadows, and dry regions. Its botanical name, Opuntia, is thought to reference the ancient Greek town of Opus, where a similar cactus once grew.
Michigan Seeds and Plants grown on our farm, Renegade Acres, in Howell, MI!
Certified Organic by Oregon Tilth.
Additional Info
| Botanical Name | Opuntia ficus |
|---|---|
| Life Cycle | Perennial |
| Min. Time to Germinate | 14 Days |
| Max. Time to Germinate | 6 Months |
| Depth to Sow Seeds | 1/8 in. |
| When to Sow | Indoors 6-8 weeks before last spring frost |
| Growing Height | 24-36 in. (60-90 cm) |
| Plant Spacing | 24-36 in. (60-90 cm) |
| Hardiness | USDA Zone 8a: to 15F, USDA Zone 8b: to 20F, USDA Zone 9a: to 25F, USDA Zone 9b: to 30F, USDA Zone 10a: to 35F, USDA Zone 10b: to 40F |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun, Sun to Partial Shade |
| Danger | Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling |
| Bloom Color | Pale Yellow |
| Bloom Time | Late Spring/Early Summer, Mid-Spring |
| Foliage | Blue-Green |
| Other Details | Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater, Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping |
| Soil pH Requirements | 6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic), 6.6 to 7.5 (neutral), 7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline) |
| Propagation Methods | Allow cut surface to callous over before planting, From seed; direct sow after last frost, From softwood cuttings, From woody stem cuttings |
| Seed Collecting | Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds, Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored, Unblemished fruit must be significantly overripe before harvesting seed; clean and dry seeds |
| Seeds Per Pack | 5 |
