Overview
Nopalea cochinellifera is a plant with a clump forming habit in the genus Nopalea, part of the Cactaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Nopalea cochinellifera grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H1a. Suggested uses include houseplants and conservatory and greenhouse.
About
Nopalea cochinellifera, commonly known as cochineal cactus or cochineal plant, is a clump-forming evergreen cactus from the family Cactaceae. It thrives in full sun and prefers a south-facing, sheltered aspect with well-drained loam or sandy soil of any pH. This cultivar is suitable for growing as a houseplant or in conservatories and greenhouses in the UK, where it requires protection (H1a hardiness). It is best planted in well-drained soil and watered during establishment. Propagation is by seed sown in early spring at 19-24°C or by division of offsets in summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Nopalea
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H1a
Plant details
Nopalea cochinellifera size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Houseplants, Conservatory and greenhouse
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Nopalea cochinellifera
- Propagation
- Seed sown at 19-24°C (66-75°F) in early spring, or by division, removing offsets in summer
- Pest resistance
- Mealybugs
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Nopalea cochinellifera?
Nopalea cochinellifera prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Nopalea cochinellifera need?
Nopalea cochinellifera grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Nopalea cochinellifera hardy in the UK?
Nopalea cochinellifera has an RHS hardiness rating of H1a, meaning it needs tropical warmth above 15°C and must be grown under glass in the UK.
How do I propagate Nopalea cochinellifera?
Seed sown at 19-24°C (66-75°F) in early spring, or by division, removing offsets in summer.
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