Opuntia phaeacantha
TAXONOMY
FamilyCactaceae
GenusOpuntia
Zone7
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Opuntia phaeacantha, commonly known as the Brown-spined Prickly Pear, is a species of cactus in the family Cactaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This succulent subshrub is well-adapted to arid environments and is known for its flat, paddle-like segments and yellow flowers. It undergoes a dormancy period during the cooler months.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Tulip Prickly Pear
Opuntia angustata
Opuntia blakeana
Opuntia camanchica
Opuntia canada
Opuntia chihuahuensis
Opuntia comanchica
Opuntia confusa
Opuntia cyclodes
Opuntia dulcis
Opuntia engelmannii var. cyclodes
Opuntia engelmannii var. dulcis
Opuntia engelmannii var. wootonii
Opuntia eocarpa
Opuntia gilvescens
Opuntia gregoriana
Opuntia laevis var. canada
Opuntia lindheimeri var. cyclodes
Opuntia lindheimeri var. dulcis
Opuntia mesacantha var. sphaerocarpa
Opuntia mohavensis
Opuntia mojavensis
Opuntia phaeacantha f. brunnea
Opuntia phaeacantha subsp. camanchica
Opuntia phaeacantha subsp. mojavensis
Opuntia phaeacantha var. brunnea
Opuntia phaeacantha var. camanchica
Opuntia phaeacantha var. castorea
Opuntia phaeacantha var. chihuahuensis
Opuntia phaeacantha var. major
Opuntia phaeacantha var. mojavensis
Opuntia phaeacantha var. nigricans
Opuntia phaeacantha var. phaeacantha
Opuntia phaeacantha var. superbospina
Opuntia phaeacantha var. wootonii
Opuntia platyacantha f. mojavensis
Opuntia procumbens
Opuntia recurvospina
Opuntia rubrifolia
Opuntia superbospina
Opuntia toumeyi
Opuntia wootonii
Opuntia zuniensis
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterVery Dry
SoilSandy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity30%
GDD1,800
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Opuntia phaeacantha thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers warm temperatures. It is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Ensure the plant is kept in a dry environment with low humidity. This cactus is well-suited for outdoor growth in temperate climates.Harvest
Opuntia phaeacantha, commonly known as the prickly pear cactus, is typically harvested for its fruit and pads. The fruit, known as tunas, should be harvested when they are fully ripe, which is indicated by a deep red or purple color. Use tongs or gloves to avoid the spines and twist the fruit gently to remove it from the plant. The pads, or nopales, can be harvested when they are young and tender, usually in the spring. Cut the pads at the base using a sharp knife. Both the fruit and pads should be handled carefully to avoid the spines, and the pads should be de-spined and cleaned before consumption.Soil
This cactus prefers sandy soil with excellent drainage. It can tolerate poor, rocky soils but thrives best in a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Avoid waterlogged conditions to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Opuntia phaeacantha does not require frequent fertilization. If desired, a light application of a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer can be applied during the growing season.Repotting
Repotting is not frequently required for this cactus. When necessary, repot in the spring using a well-draining cactus mix. Handle with care to avoid damaging the spines.Propagation
Propagation is typically done through cuttings. Allow the cut segments to callous over for a few days before planting them in well-draining soil. Propagation is best done in the warmer months.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Opuntia phaeacantha. However, damaged or diseased segments can be removed as needed. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts.Toxicity
Opuntia phaeacantha is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the spines can cause physical injury if not handled carefully.Additional
This cactus is highly resilient and can thrive in harsh conditions. It is an excellent choice for xeriscaping and can be used to create a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant garden.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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