About

An attractive tree, reaching 5-15m, with a spreading crown. It bears ornamental features. 'Smithwick' is valued in garden settings.

About the genus

Opuntia can be creeping, bushy or tree-like cacti, usually with flattened, pad-like stem segments bearing spines and barbed bristles, and with funnel-shaped flowers followed by spiny, fleshy fruits

Plant details

Suggested usesSpecimen tree, large borders

Care notes

CultivationFertile, well-drained soil in sun or part shade
PruningPrune when young. Remove dead wood
PropagationSeed or grafting
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceHoney fungus possible