Opuntia ficus-indica
Mission or Tree Cactus, Indian Fig
Description
This unusual looking cactus forms a trunk topped with pads (actually the leaves) that have few spines. Flowers are yellow to orange in late spring and early summer, found at the edges of the pads. Green edible fruit follows the bloom period. Fruit turns purple when ripe. This cactus need full sun and well draining soil. It is frost sensitive. The newly formed pads, or nopales of this cactus are used to make a delicious salsa,. The major pest comes from a scale.
Plant Type
Succulent, Cactus
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
Orange, Yellow
Flower Season
Spring, Summer
Leaf Color
Green, Light Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Purple, Red
Fruit Season
Summer, Fall
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Rocky
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Ranch, Spanish
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Swimming Pool, Walls / Fences, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Change spray sprinklers to low-flow bubbler or drip systems. Shrubs and trees are ideal candidates for this type of irrigation because the water is applied directly to the root zones.