About
Opuntia ficus-indica, Indian fig, is a bushy, tree-like cactus with divided, spiny, flat, oblong to elliptic, grey-green stems. Bowl-shaped, yellow or orange flowers are produced from spring until summer, followed by purple, orange or red, edible fruit. One of the most widely cultivated of the prickly pears � grown as an ornamental and for its fruits in frost-free gardens.
About the genus
Opuntia are creeping, bushy or tree-like cacti with flattened, pad-like stem segments bearing spines and barbed bristles, and funnel-shaped flowers followed by spiny, fleshy fruits. Grown in sunny, well-drained positions in frost-free gardens and heated greenhouses.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageEvergreen
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toMexico
ToxicitySkin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling 11873,opuntia-glaucophylla,Opuntia glaucophylla,,Opuntia glaucophylla is a prickly pear producing distinctively glaucous
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in sharply-draining, peat-free, loam-based compost with added sharp sand, or a proprietary peat-free cactus compost. Provide full light at all times and allow compost to dry before watering during growth period in spring, summer and early autumn and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser three or four times. Withhold water and fertiliser in winter when dormant. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed in spring. Sow after pre-soaking and keep at 21°C for germination. Root stem segments in summer. Handle segments with folded newspaper to avoid touching spines
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free although in poorly drained, or wet soil, can be susceptible to root rots