Opuntia ficus-indica is part of the Cactaceae family and its native range is Mexico. It is a succulent shrub or tree and grows primarily in the seasonally dry tropical biome. This species is considered important in agricultural economies throughout arid and semiarid parts of the world. Cladodes are narrowly to broadly obovate, oblong or spatulate-oblong, they are flattened yet thick and succulent. The epidermis is green, very thick and waxy, making it very water repellent and sun reflecting.
Genus is named for the Ancient Greek city of Opus, where, according to Theophrastus, an edible plant grew and could be propagated by rooting its leaves.
Pot: ø 18cm.
Height: Approximately 50cm from base of pot.
Light: Provide this Opuntia with full sun, you should grow it in a place that receives bright, filtered sunlight during the day.
Water: Allow the potting mix to dry out completely between waterings, aerate the mix with a few pokes of a skewer or blunt stick, pour water slowly over the top and allow the water to pass through the drainage holes.
Potting mix: Cactus Focus repotting mix or a well draining potting mix containing coco coir, gravel, horticultural sand and perlite.
Fertilising: Feed using a cactus specific fertiliser.
Temperature: Up to 38°C in summer and winter temperatures between 7-13°C.
Humidity: Average home humidity is fine.
Although this plant is non-toxic, keep out of reach of pets and children as the spines can be painful and irritating.