Opuntia ficus-indica

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Mission Cactus, Tree Cactus

 
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. Escapes cultivation.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Culture

  • Design

Plant Type

Succulent, Cactus

 

Height Range

6-12', 12-25'

 

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:

Check soil moisture below the surface with a soil probe or large screwdriver, trowel or shovel. Don't assume the plants need water just because the soil surface looks dry.