Opuntia cochenillifera (Cochineal Pricklypear)


Botanical Information

FamilyCactaceae
GenusOpuntia
Speciescochenillifera
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginSoutheastern United states of America and tropical Mexico.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone9a - 10b
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH3
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-1
Temperature (°F)12
Height6 m
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodMarch, April, May

Description and Growing Information

ShapeUpright to low-spreading.
LandscapeIn potted succulent collections, as an accent "tree" in rock gardens, containers, large scale potted patio plant or as a specimen.
PropagationPropagate from woody stem, softwood, semi-hard cuttings.
CultivationPlant in loose, gravelly well-draining cactus-type soil in full sun.
Notable SpecimensDesert Botanical Gardens, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America.
HabitatDry gravelly slopes.
Bark/Stem DescriptionRugged succulent bark.
Leaf DescriptionLanceolate succulent leaves with a rounded apex.
Flower DescriptionSolitary cupped blooms with pronounced stamen. Petals are obovate-rounded in shape and form in loose false rosettes around the stamen. Blooms can be found throughout the plant.
Fruit DescriptionSmall prickly pears borne after flowers bloom.
Colour DescriptionPale to sage green foliage. Dull tan to medium green succulent bark. Bright persimmon orange blooms.
Texture DescriptionSmooth to rugged.

Photographs