Opuntia Ficus Indica Cactus Plant

Indian fig opuntia Family Opuntioideae Native Mexico Description Opuntia ficus-indica is a slow growing perennial shrub up to 3-5 m high. The root-system spreads horizontally. Stems (cladodes) are very thick, succulent, oblong to spatulate, 30-40 cm long (up to 70-80 cm) and 18-25 cm wide. The epidermis is very thick and waxy, thus very water repellent and sun reflecting. Leaves are generally reduced to thorns but may exist on young cladodes (they soon wither and quickly fall). Some varieties are spineless. Flowering occurs on 1-2 year-old cladodes. Flowers open in the late morning . The fruit is succulent, reddish, ellipsoid, 7 cm long and edible Environment Demands full light growing for most of the year, except during the winter cycle. For the plant's health, light should be reduced to partial sun during this time. India Fig Cactus is a desert species. Cactus are a gardeners dream for their low maintenance and interesting appearance. Water can be the death of the plant but it does need consistent moisture during the growing season. Water the plant when the top one inch of soil is dry. Allow the water to drain out of the pot and remove any excess from the saucer. During fall and winter, water lightly only every 2- 3 weeks. Like most cacti, this specimen demands sandy soil-bases that drain easily Feed Cactus monthly with low nitrogen fertilizer. Fertilization should stop one month before the planned winter cycle for the plant's health.Landscape Uses Makes an attractive landscape plant .It is an excellent plant for container growing. It always looks good and stays small.