Opuntia monacantha f. monstruosa var. variegata (Variegated Joseph's Coat, Variegated Eltham Indian Fig, Variegated Pak'an, Variegated Sweet Prickly Pear)


Botanical Information

FamilyCactaceae
GenusOpuntia
Speciesmonacantha
Formamonstruosa
Varietyvariegata
SynonymsOpuntia monacantha f. monstrusoa var. variegata 'Maverick'
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone9b - 11
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH3 - H1c
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)5
Temperature (°F)36
Height0.5 - 1 m
Spread0.3 - 0.5 m
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodMay, June, July

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionOne of the few naturally-occurring white-variegated species of cacti found in the wild.
ShapeUpright-spreading.
LandscapeIn potted succulent and cacti collections, in arid gardens, in rock gardens, as a potted indoor or patio plant or as a specimen.
PropagationCuttings.
CultivationPlant in loose, well-draining cactus mix, sandy or gravelly soil in full sun. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Notable SpecimensCentennial conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatRocky sunny plains.
Bark/Stem DescriptionSmooth glabrous succulent flesh that is variegated in clusters of small bands. Areoles 3 - 6 mm in diameter, visible, with 4 - 8 thin spines up to 4 cm long.
Flower/Leaf Bud DescriptionSmall insignificant pinnate flowers, carrying 1 - 3 scales that appear as buds near the crowns of developed lobes.
Colour DescriptionSucculent flesh varies in colour from medium green to a pale creamy sage green. Areoles vary from brownish-red to reddish-pink with brownish-black spines. Flowers and flower buds are reddish-pink.
Texture DescriptionSmooth, thorny.

Photographs