Prickly pear - Opuntia ficus-indica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Prickly pear

Also known as: Barbary fig, Spineless cactus, Cactus Fruit

Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) is a flowering cactus native to Mexico. Prickly pear is a widely domesticated species grown for agricultural purposes in arid climates throughout the world. This species is edible and planted widely as a fruit and vegetable crop. Prickly pear is commercially valued as food, animal fodder, an adobe ingredient, and is also planted to control soil erosion.

Scientific classification

Species

Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent, Shrub

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Early fall, Mid fall

Harvest Time

1 m to 6 m

Plant Height

1.5 m to 3 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Size

Red, Purple

Fruit Color

Yellow, Orange

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Orange, Red, Yellow, Purple

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Prickly pear

Distribution of Prickly pear

Distribution Map

Prickly pear, native to Mexico, is widely cultivated and can be found across multiple continents. It thrives in both native and introduced regions, including various areas in the Mediterranean, parts of Southern and Eastern Asia, and numerous countries within the Americas. It has adapted to diverse climates and is sometimes thought to be naturalized, though it may have an impact on ecosystems in certain areas where its presence is notable. In some regions of Africa and Asia, for instance, prickly pear may be considered potentially invasive, albeit its cultivation for agricultural purposes is widespread.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry arid and rocky places

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Prickly pear is a great choice for desert, xeriscape, or Mediterranean-style gardens, as it needs comparatively little water to thrive. Planted for decorative and edible purposes, this plant starts as a woody shrub and can eventually grow into a tree. In some areas, it is used to control soil erosion. It can be planted alongside almost any garden crop: herbs, vegetables and other fruit trees.

Symbolism

Hope, protection, longevity

Interesting Facts

A serious contender to Argan oil, the oil of the prickly pear contains high levels of vitamin E, vitamin K and beta-carotene and is gaining fame in the world of cosmetics. A small cooperative of women in Southern Morocco have been making products from the prickly pear, turning it into an important source of income for many poor, rural communities.

Name Story

Prickly pear: The plant was simply named prickly pear because its prickly fruit resembles a pear in size and shape. The pads of the prickly pear cactus, called nopales, are also edible but they are not commonly available outside of the native region.

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Care Guide for Prickly pear

Once per month

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Prickly pear thrives in arid conditions, storing water and tolerating dry spells. This succulent requires watering once every four weeks and a well-draining soil mix to prevent root rot, reflecting its natural habitat's sporadic heavy rainfall.

Fertilize: For optimal growth, fertilize prickly pear with Succulents and Cacti Food once in spring and summer using a quarter-strength ratio to avoid root burn. Avoid winter feeding and wear gloves to protect from spines. Clear debris before feeding for better nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Prickly pear needs minimal pruning. It's essential to remove withered flowers and branches to ensure the plant allocates nutrients effectively for healthy growth.

Propagation: Prickly pear is best propagated through cuttings, which should be allowed to callus before planting in well-draining soil. Maintain consistently moist soil without waterlogging to support root growth. With sufficient sunlight and warmth, the cutting will develop a strong root system.

Repotting: Repot prickly pear every 2-3 years in spring, using a container one size larger and ensuring good drainage. Post-repotting, utilize well-draining soil and resume watering after one week to foster recovery and prevent root rot.

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