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Cochineal Nopal Cactus (Opuntia cochenillifera)

Cochineal Nopal Cactus (Opuntia cochenillifera) is a succulent with flat, paddle-shaped segments and vibrant flowers, historically cultivated for the cochineal insect.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Full sun to partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun.

Watering

Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce in winter.

Soil

Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix, or sandy loam.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures. Can tolerate light frost.

Habitat

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Feed during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer. Do not feed in winter.

Care Requirements

Light

Full sun to partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun.

Water

Allow soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce in winter.

Soil

Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix, or sandy loam.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures. Can tolerate light frost.

Ideal: 20-30°C, Tolerates: 5-10°C

Habitat

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Fertilizer

Feed during growing season with diluted balanced fertilizer. Do not feed in winter.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Succulent

Plant Category

Fruit, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor, Greenhouse

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

1-2 m

Spread

1-3 m

Growth Rate

Moderate

Dormancy

None

Leaf Type

Cladodes

Flower Size

5-7 cm

Image Gallery

Synonyms
Cactus cochenillifer L.
Cactus subinermis Link ex Steud.
Nopalea brittonii Houghton
Nopalea cochenillifera (L.) Salm-Dyck
Nopalea nuda Backeb.
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderCaryophyllales
  • familyCactaceae
  • genusOpuntia
  • speciesOpuntia cochenillifera
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

No

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

No

Rating: 0/5

Edible

Yes

Additional Care Tips

FAQs