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Description
Opuntia Macrocentra, also known as Black Spine Cactus, is a species of cactus native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. This slow-growing cactus can reach up to 4 feet in height and 6 feet in width. The plant has a shrubby growth habit and is characterized by its flattened pads that are covered in black spines. During the spring and summer, the plant produces showy yellow flowers that are followed by edible red fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Opuntia |
Appearance
Opuntia Macrocentra has flat, oval-shaped pads that are covered in black spines. The pads are typically 6-8 inches long and 4-6 inches wide. The spines are very sharp and can cause skin irritation, so care should be taken when handling the plant. During the spring and summer, the plant produces large, showy yellow flowers that are followed by edible red fruit. The fruit is sweet and can be eaten raw or cooked.
Care Guide
Opuntia Macrocentra is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Plant your Opuntia Macrocentra in well-draining soil. Avoid heavy, clay soils.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Opuntia Macrocentra is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Opuntia Macrocentra is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites. If you notice these pests on your plant, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot can also be a problem if the plant is overwatered, so be sure to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Opuntia Macrocentra is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats. The plant is well-adapted to hot, dry climates and can tolerate drought and intense sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Opuntia Macrocentra be grown indoors?
A: While Opuntia Macrocentra can be grown indoors, it prefers to be outdoors in full sun.Q: How often should I water my Opuntia Macrocentra?
A: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter months.Q: Is Opuntia Macrocentra frost tolerant?
A: Opuntia Macrocentra can tolerate brief periods of frost but is not frost hardy.Q: How big can Opuntia Macrocentra grow?
A: Opuntia Macrocentra can reach up to 4 feet in height and 6 feet in width.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Opuntia Macrocentra:- Opuntia Ficus-Indica- Opuntia Microdasys- Opuntia Imbricata- Opuntia Polyacantha- Opuntia Engelmannii
References
– “Opuntia Macrocentra.” Desert Botanical Garden. https://www.dbg.org/plants/opuntia-macrocentra- “Opuntia Macrocentra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c318- “Opuntia Macrocentra.” Cactus Art. http://cactus-art.biz/schede/OPUNTIA/Opuntia_macrocentra/Opuntia_macrocentra/Opuntia_macrocentra.htm
