Also known as Barbary Fig · Cochineal Prickly-Pear · Common Prickly Pear
Opuntia monacantha, the Common Pricklypear, is a striking succulent with flattened, pad-like stems and vibrant yellow flowers, native to South America and naturalized els
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 for best growth and flowering.
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
25% intensity
Water thoroughly when dry. Reduce watering in winter.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm.
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 20-30°C. Can tolerate cooler temperatures in dormancy but protect from frost.
Low.
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a diluted cactus fertilizer.
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. Overwatering is the most common cause of death for Opuntia monacantha. Reduce watering significantly in winter when the plant is dormant to prevent root rot.
Ensure good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Prune Opuntia monacantha to manage its size, shape, or remove damaged/diseased pads. Use a sharp, clean knife or shears. Allow cuts to callous over before replanting or discarding to prevent disease.
Pruning can be done at any time, but is best done in spring.
Propagate by stem cuttings (pads). Allow cuttings to dry and callous for several days to a week before planting in well-draining soil. Roots will form within a few weeks.
This is a very reliable method for multiplying Opuntia monacantha.
Repot your Opuntia monacantha every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its current container. Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Handle with care to avoid spines.
Repotting is best done in spring when the plant is actively growing.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Pricklypear (Opuntia monacantha)
Where Common Pricklypear (Opuntia monacantha) 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 monacantha |
Similar in genus Opuntia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
