Golden prickly pear (Opuntia aurea)

Golden prickly pear

Boasting a resilient demeanor, golden prickly pear thrives in arid climates through its distinctive, paddle-like stems, known for their green to blue-green hue. This cactus family member punctuates the landscape with vibrant yellow blossoms that contrast its sharp spines, signaling a survival adaptation to deter predators while inviting pollinators to sustain its existence.

Scientific classification

Species

Golden prickly pear (Opuntia aurea)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Golden prickly pear

Care Guide for Golden prickly pear

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Golden prickly pear is drought-tolerant and requires careful watering every 1-2 weeks. It thrives in sandy soil that drains quickly, making it ideal for outdoor environments in desert climates.

Fertilize: During growing seasons (spring, summer, fall), fertilize golden prickly pear monthly with liquid fertilizer; avoid winter fertilization. Incorporate slow-release fertilizer when repotting. Use nitrogen fertilization for seedlings and low-concentration phosphate-potassium fertilizer pre and post-bloom. Stop fertilization if yellowing and slow growth occur.

Pruning: Golden prickly pear thrives with minimal interference, requiring early spring pruning to promote growth and shape. Remove damaged pads with sanitized tools while avoiding over-pruning for optimal sunlight exposure. Proper pruning encourages blossom production and enhances overall plant health.

Propagation: Propagation methods for golden prickly pear include division and grafting. For division, cut stems are planted to encourage new shoots. Grafting involves placing golden prickly pear onto a cut rootstock, securing it for 1-2 weeks until they unite, creating a new plant.

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