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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Prickly Pear is very drought tolerant once established, so once its roots are down it needs little supplementary water. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Prickly Pear after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Prickly Pear with other plants that enjoy the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
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. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.