Blind prickly pear (Opuntia rufida)

Blind prickly pear

Blind prickly pear is a cactus with a distinctive reddish-brown glochid, making it unique among its relatives. It grows in clusters of pad-like stems that are thick and capable of storing water, which enables blind prickly pear to thrive in arid environments. Yellow flowers blossom in spring, offering a stark contrast to its otherwise subdued coloration. Its ability to adapt to harsh sun and poor soil highlights blind prickly pear's hardiness.

Scientific classification

Species

Blind prickly pear (Opuntia rufida)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

30 cm

Spread

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Blind prickly pear

Care Guide for Blind prickly pear

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Blind prickly pear thrives in arid conditions, storing water efficiently and requiring minimal hydration, with watering once every 1-2 weeks. Preferring well-draining soil, it is highly drought-tolerant and typically found in hot climates to prevent root rot.

Fertilize: Fertilize blind prickly pear monthly with liquid fertilizer during spring, summer, and fall; no winter fertilization needed. Incorporate slow-release fertilizer when repotting in spring or fall. Use low-concentration nitrogen fertilizer for seedlings and phosphate-potassium before and after blooming. Stop fertilization if yellowing occurs.

Pruning: Blind prickly pear features spineless reddish-brown pads and needs pruning in early spring for shape and growth. Use sterilized shears to remove damaged pads, wearing gloves for protection. Focus on the main stem to reduce overcrowding, promote sunlight exposure, and enhance overall health and appearance.

Propagation: Propagation methods for blind prickly pear include division and grafting. For division, cut stem branches and plant them to encourage new shoots. Grafting involves selecting rootstock, cutting it, and placing blind prickly pear in the center, securing it to allow growth together over 1-2 weeks.

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