A large segmented cactus of flat oval green pads armed with spines and fine barbed glochids, bearing yellow flowers and edible red-purple fruit. A declared weed in much of Australia, so plant with care.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 3 m H × 2.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Prickly Pear
Opuntia ficus-indica is a moderate-growing succulent in the Cactaceae family. It reaches around 3 m tall and 2.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Yellow and orange flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Prickly Pear
Prickly Pear suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Prickly Pear does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Prickly Pear handles dry conditions well once established. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Prickly Pear after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Prickly Pear in the garden
Prickly Pear earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and edible harvests.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate as Prickly Pear. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Good to know
It is thorny — useful as a barrier, but wear gloves when pruning. Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Prickly Pear
Plant Sale lists Prickly Pear as potted plants. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
