Also known as Cochineal Cactus · French Prickly Pear · Nōcheznohpalli (nah)
Cochineal Nopal Cactus (Opuntia cochenillifera) is a succulent known for its flattened, paddle-like stems and historical significance as the source of cochineal dye.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade.
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Water deeply when dry, less frequently in cooler months.
Sandy, well-draining soil
50% intensity
Warm to moderate temperatures.
50% intensity
Prefers 20-30°C during growing season; can tolerate cooler, dry winter rest.
Infrequent fertilization during growing season.
25% intensity
Use balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer sparingly in spring and summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer).
Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering is a common cause of problems.
Prune Opuntia cochenillifera to shape the plant, remove dead or damaged pads, or control its size. Use a sharp, sterilized knife or pruners.
Allow cuts to callus over before replanting or leaving exposed to prevent disease. Pruning is best done in spring.
Propagate Opuntia cochenillifera from stem cuttings (pads). Allow cuttings to callus for several days to a week before planting them in well-draining soil. Roots typically form within a few weeks.
Water sparingly until established.
Repot Opuntia cochenillifera every 2-3 years, or when it outgrows its container. Choose a pot only slightly larger than the current one with excellent drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus mix.
Repot in spring just before the active growing season begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cochineal Nopal Cactus (Opuntia cochenillifera)
Where Cochineal Nopal Cactus (Opuntia cochenillifera) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Opuntia |
| Species | Opuntia cochenillifera |
Similar in genus Opuntia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
