Opuntia ficus-indica Prickly pear (Cactaceae) Evergreen perennial

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Opuntia ficus-indica
Prickly pear
Evergreen perennial
(1 Page of 5)

The Opuntia ficus-indica plant species is found in Original habitat is obscure. It is a member of the Cactaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Prickly pear.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Opuntia ficus-indica
Common Name:  Prickly pear
Family:  Cactaceae
Author:  (L.)Mill.

Known Hazards:  The plant has numerous minutely barbed glochids (hairs) that are easily dislodged when the plant is touched and they then become stuck to the skin where they are difficult to see and remove. They can cause considerable discomfort[200].

Mature Height:  5   Mature Width:  5

Habitat:  Naturalized in the Mediterranean where it grows in dry arid and rocky places[89].

Cultivation Notes: Requires a sandy or very well-drained soil[1, 3]. Prefers a pH in the range 6 to 7.5[200]. Plants must be kept fairly dry in the winter but they like a reasonable supply of water in the growing season. A position at the base of a south-facing wall or somewhere that can be protected from winter rain is best for this plant. Requires warmth and plenty of sun[3]. Plants tolerate considerable neglect[3]. Cultivated in many warm temperate and sub tropical areas for its edible fruits[89,183] and its use as a stock-proof barrier, it is not very cold-tolerant and is unlikely to survive the winter outdoors in Britain. There are some named varieties[183], one at least of which is free from spines and irritant hairs.

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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