Opuntia ficus-indica |
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Mission Cactus, Tree Cactus |
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.
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Anatomy
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Culture
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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:
Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch in planting beds to conserve water, suppress weeds, and protect the soil from compaction and erosion.