Opuntia ficus indica prickly pear cactus, Spineless/Barbary Fig, pad cutting

DESCRIPTION

This listing is for one single cutting/pad (non-rooted). Each pad is approximately 10 inches long unless stated otherwise. Due to the nature of live plants, the pad you receive may look slightly different from the photos.

Opuntia ficus-indica (Spineless Prickly Pear / Barbary Fig)

Opuntia ficus-indica, commonly known as the Spineless Prickly Pear or Barbary Fig, is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant cactus native to Mexico and widely cultivated throughout arid and semi-arid regions worldwide. This variety is often spineless or has very minimal glochids, making it easier and safer to handle compared to traditional prickly pear types.

The plant features broad, flat, green pads (cladodes) that grow in a segmented, upright fashion and can reach impressive sizes. In late spring to summer, it produces vibrant yellow to orange flowers, followed by edible fruit known as “tunas.” The fruit ranges in color from green to reddish-purple when ripe and is valued for its sweet, juicy pulp. The pads (also called nopales) are also edible and used in various traditional dishes.

Care Requirements:

• Light: Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight per day).
• Water: Extremely drought-tolerant. Water sparingly and allow the soil to dry completely between waterings.
• Soil: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil.
• Hardiness: USDA zones 8–11; tolerates light frost and brief cold periods.
• Growth Habit: Can grow up to 10–15 feet tall and wide with age. Suitable for landscape planting, xeriscaping, or large containers.

Important: Please allow the cut end of the pad to callous (dry out) before planting to prevent rotting.

Uses:

• Edible pads (nopales) and fruit (tunas)
• Ornamental cactus for desert-style gardens
• Wildlife habitat and erosion control

Special Features:

• Nearly spineless—easier to handle than other Opuntia varieties
• Produces both edible fruit and pads
• Fast-growing and low-maintenance

SHIPPING

We ship year-round every Monday to locations throughout the United States, except Alaska and Hawaii. At this time, we do not offer international shipping.

Please allow 3 to 5 business days for packing and processing. To ensure your order ships on Monday, the cut-off time is Sunday at 1:00 P.M.

Mayumi Garden is not responsible for any shipping delays caused by the carrier. Please double-check your shipping address before submitting your order to avoid delays or additional shipping charges.

CANCELLATION/ RETURNS POLICY

We currently do not accept returns, exchanges, or cancellations. However, please contact us if you encounter any issues with your order.