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Opuntia ficus-indica

Indian Fig Prickly Pear

Plant photo of: Opuntia ficus-indica
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Information by: George Hull MSN        Photographer: Mountain States Nursery

 

Description

More tree like than other opuntias to 15'. Usually have no spines but some glochids can be found. Flowers are yellow to orange in late spring and early summer. Fruit is edible. Full sun. Must have good drainage. Frost sensitive to hard freeze. When they are young, the pads, or mopales of this cactus are used to make a delicious salsa, which is reputed to have beneficial health effects. The major pest and source of the red dye cochineal comes from a scale.

 

Plant Type

Succulent, Cactus

Height Range

6-12', 12-25'

Width Range

6-12'

Flower Color

Orange, Yellow

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Green, Light Green

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

Purple, Red, Yellow

Fruit Season

Summer, Fall

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Low

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Sandy, Rocky

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

n/a

Design Styles

Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers, Unusual Shape

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Parking Strip, Swimming Pool, With Rocks

Special Uses

Filler, Mass Planting, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing

Attracts Wildlife

n/a

Water Saving Tip:

Move turf away form sidewalks and pavement.

Instead plant shrubs or groundcovers next to the pavement, and water with low-flow drip or bubbler system to eliminate runoff from turf sprinklers