TROPICAL PLANT ENCYCLOPEDIA

Opuntia cochenillifera, Nopalea cochenillifera, Opuntia nuda, Cochineal Cactus, Warm hand, Velvet Opuntia, Nopales Opuntia, Nopal Cactus

Opuntia cochenillifera, Nopalea cochenillifera, Opuntia nuda

Cochineal Cactus, Warm hand, Velvet Opuntia, Nopales Opuntia, Nopal Cactus
Family: Cactaceae
Origin: Mexico
USDA Zone: 8-11?
USDA Plant Hardiness MapLarge shrub 5-10 ft tallSemi-shadeFull sunModerate waterRed, crimson, vinous flowersEdible plantSubtropical or temperate zone plant. Mature plant cold hardy at least to 30s F for a short time

This variety of opuntia has thornless, pleasant to touch thick leaves. During summer hot day leaves warm up and their touch reminds of a warm hand touch. The plant will form a nice ornamental shrub. Flowers are bright red to crimson. Very fast growing, will thrive in neglect, tolerates almost any conditions. Perfect plant for a lazy gardener.

This is a nearly spineless variety of cactus that is easy to prepare, and has a delightful taste both raw and cooked. Sometimes can be confused with Opuntia monacantha that usually has more thorns. Related species - Opuntia tomentosa.


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Link to this plant:
https://toptropicals.com/catalog/uid/opuntia_cochenillifera.htm

Opuntia cochenillifera - Velvet Nopal Cactus, Prickly Pear

This is a very valuable edible used as a vegetable,...  more

Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
This item is certified for shipping to California, Texas, Louisiana, Arizona.
Grown in
6"/1 gal pot
In stock
$19.95

Opuntia variegata - Variegated Prickly Pear

Variegated form of Prickly Pear, very ornamental.
It is a very valuable edible used as a vegetable, with many medicinal properties. One of them is amazing affect on diabetes, people who regularly use this vegetable in their diet claim they were able to get rid of this illness. Stir fry or saute with some onions, garlic, etc.
Prickly Pear is fast-growing desert plant with showy bright red flowers. Drought tolerant, but also doesn't mind Florida rains. It will grow in neglect and pretty much any conditions. Perfect for easy landscaping.

Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
This item is certified for shipping to California, Texas, Louisiana, Arizona.
Grown in
6"/1 gal pot, large plant