Opuntia aciculata cactus Features
Morphology: Opuntia aciculata is a medium-sized cactus, usually spineless or with few spines, but with abundant glochids.
Flowers: The inner petals of the flowers are yellow, orange or dark red, 8-10 cm in diameter, with yellow stamens and a thick green stigma with pink tints.
Fruit: The fruit is pear-shaped, covered with fine spines and glochids, and purple.
Opuntia aciculata cactus Size：
- It is a fleshy shrub that forms large, hemispherical, tufted mats that can reach 60-90 cm in height and 100-300 cm in width.
Opuntia aciculata cactus Special Care or Planting instructions
- Light
Opuntia aciculata requires full, direct sunlight for optimal growth and will not produce many flowers in a semi-shaded location.
- Soil
This cactus prefers sandy soil and requires excellent drainage to prevent root rot. It is recommended to use a soil mix specifically for cacti or succulents and ensure that the soil is completely dry between waterings to mimic its natural desert habitat.
- Temperature
Opuntia aciculata is heat-tolerant and relatively cold-tolerant, growing in USDA planting zones 8a through 10b, where average winter minimum temperatures range from 10°F to 40°F (about -12.2 to 4.4°C).
- Water
Water moderately from spring to fall and allow the soil to completely dry before watering again. In most areas, rainfall is usually sufficient for mature plants. If potted, never let the container sit in water. During the winter, reduce watering.
- Fertilization
Opuntia aciculata does not require additional fertilizer when planted in the ground. However, if potted, it will benefit from fertilization during the growing season. Apply a water-soluble fertilizer and stop fertilizing during the winter when the plant is dormant.
- Propagation
Propagation can be done by stem cuttings or seeds. The easiest method is by stem cuttings, which will produce results more quickly. The best time to propagate is to take stem cuttings in early summer and sow seeds in late spring.
- Pruning
Opuntia aciculata does not usually require pruning. If necessary, use a clean, sharp tool to remove any damaged or diseased sections.
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