About
Opuntia pilifera is a columnar, tree-like prickly pear producing flat stem segments with distinctive, hair-like white spines and funnel-shaped, red flowers in summer. An ornamental and distinctive cactus for a sunny, well-drained, frost-free garden.
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.
Plant details
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, gardens, parks.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil. Stake young.
PruningPrune in late winter or after flowering.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.