Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cactaceae

Genus:

Opuntia

Species:

Opuntia ficus-indica

USDA Symbol:

OPFI

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Succulent

Height:

500 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

may,jun,jul

Bloom Colors:

yellow, orange, red

Food Forest:

Contains edible parts

Landscaping Shrub:

Yes

Keystone Species Ranking

Pollen Specialist Bee Keystone:

★☆☆☆☆ Native pollen specialist bee species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, bees, small mammals

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

Thrives in arid and semi-arid regions.

Propagation & Germination

Notes:

Seeds require warm temperatures (20-30°C) and may benefit from scarification; germination can be slow and erratic.