Opuntia ficus-indica
TAXONOMY
FamilyCactaceae
GenusOpuntia
Zone9
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Opuntia ficus-indica, commonly known as the prickly pear cactus, is a succulent shrub or tree native to seasonally dry tropical climates. It belongs to the Cactaceae family and the Opuntia genus. This plant is known for its edible fruit and pads, which are used in various culinary dishes. It has a dormancy period of about 2 months during the cooler season.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Chumbera
Figa De Moro
Nopal
Prickly Pear
Tuna
Cactus compressus
Cactus decumanus
Cactus elongatus
Cactus ficus
Cactus ficus-indica
Cactus lanceolatus
Cactus maximus
Cactus opuntia
Cactus opuntia var. ficus-indica
Cactus opuntia var. latifolius
Nopal (mexico)
Opuntia alfagayucca
Opuntia amyclaea
Opuntia apurimacensis
Opuntia arkansana
Opuntia caespitosa
Opuntia compressa
Opuntia cordobensis
Opuntia crassa
Opuntia crassa var. major
Opuntia decumana
Opuntia elongata
Opuntia elongata var. laevior
Opuntia ficus-barbarica
Opuntia ficus-indica f. amyclaea
Opuntia ficus-indica f. decumana
Opuntia ficus-indica f. gymnocarpa
Opuntia ficus-indica f. reticulata
Opuntia ficus-indica var. amyclaea
Opuntia ficus-indica var. decumana
Opuntia ficus-indica var. elongata
Opuntia ficus-indica var. gymnocarpa
Opuntia ficus-indica var. saboten
Opuntia fusicaulis
Opuntia glaberrima
Opuntia glauca
Opuntia gymnocarpa
Opuntia labouretiana
Opuntia lanceolata
Opuntia leiascheinvariana
Opuntia leucostata
Opuntia maxima
Opuntia megacantha var. tenuispina
Opuntia mexicana
Opuntia obovata
Opuntia opuntia
Opuntia paraguayensis
Opuntia parvula
Opuntia tribuloides
Opuntia tuna-blanca
Opuntia umbrella
Opuntia undosa
Platyopuntia apurimacensis
Platyopuntia cordobensis
Platyopuntia ficus-indica
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity40%
GDD2,700
Dormancy2 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Opuntia ficus-indica thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It can tolerate low humidity and requires minimal watering, making it an easy plant to care for. Ensure the soil dries out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.Harvest
Opuntia ficus-indica, commonly known as prickly pear, is typically harvested when the fruit reaches full color, which can range from yellow to red, depending on the variety. Harvesting is usually done in late summer to early fall. To harvest, use tongs or gloves to avoid the spines and twist the fruit gently off the pad. It is important to handle the fruit carefully to avoid bruising. After harvesting, the fruit should be cleaned to remove any remaining spines before consumption or processing.Soil
This cactus prefers sandy soil with excellent drainage. A cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal. Avoid using heavy or clay soils, as they retain too much moisture and can lead to root rot.Fertilizer
Fertilize Opuntia ficus-indica with a balanced cactus fertilizer, such as 5-10-10, during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer sparingly, as too much can harm the plant.Repotting
Repot the cactus every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current pot. Use a well-draining cactus mix and handle the plant carefully to avoid the spines. Repotting is best done in the spring.Propagation
Propagate Opuntia ficus-indica by taking pad cuttings in the spring or summer. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few days before planting it in well-draining soil. Water sparingly until new growth appears.Pruning
Prune the cactus to remove dead or damaged pads and to control its size and shape. Pruning is best done in the spring or early summer. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts.Toxicity
Opuntia ficus-indica is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the spines can cause physical injury if not handled carefully. Always use gloves when handling the plant.Additional
Opuntia ficus-indica is a versatile plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It is drought-tolerant and can thrive in poor soil conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
