Opuntia Species, Smooth Mountain Prickly Pear, Indian Fig, Mission Cactus, Tuberous Prickly Pear
Opuntiaficus-indica

Synonym:Cactus ficus-indica

Synonym:Opuntia arcei

Synonym:Opuntia castillae

Synonym:Opuntia chinensis

Synonym:Opuntia cordobensis

Category
Vegetables
Cactus and Succulents

Water Requirements
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater

Sun Exposure
Full Sun

Foliage
This plant is fire-retardant

Foliage Color

Height
15-20 ft. (4.7-6 m)

Spacing
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)
36-48 in. (90-120 cm)
4-6 ft. (1.2-1.8 m)

Hardiness
USDA Zone 8b: to -9.4 °C (15 °F)
USDA Zone 9a: to -6.6 °C (20 °F)
USDA Zone 9b: to -3.8 °C (25 °F)
USDA Zone 10a: to -1.1 °C (30 °F)
USDA Zone 10b: to 1.7 °C (35 °F)

Where to Grow

Danger
Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling

Bloom Color
Red
Orange
Bright Yellow

Bloom Characteristics

Bloom Size

Bloom Time
Late Spring/Early Summer

Other details

Soil pH requirements
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)

Patent Information
Non-patented

Propagation Methods
From woody stem cuttings
From softwood cuttings
Allow cut surface to callous over before planting

Seed Collecting
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored