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Description
Opuntia Stenopetala is a species of cactus that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to Central and North America and is commonly found in Mexico, Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico. The plant is also known as the prickly pear cactus due to its large and flat pads that are covered in spines. The Opuntia Stenopetala produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and are followed by red or purple fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Opuntia |
Appearance
The Opuntia Stenopetala can grow up to 3 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The plant has flat, oval-shaped pads that are covered in spines and are about 6-12 inches long. The pads are green in color and have a waxy coating that helps prevent water loss. The Opuntia Stenopetala produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and are about 2-3 inches wide. The flowers are followed by red or purple fruits that are about 2 inches long and are edible.
Care Guide
Water: The Opuntia Stenopetala is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.Fertilization: Fertilize the Opuntia Stenopetala during the growing season with a balanced cactus fertilizer.Soil: The Opuntia Stenopetala prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or rocky. Avoid soil that is heavy and retains water.Sunlight: The Opuntia Stenopetala requires full sun to thrive. Place the plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The Opuntia Stenopetala is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Opuntia Stenopetala is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or by wiping the plant down with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in soil that does not drain well.
Habitat
The Opuntia Stenopetala is native to Central and North America and is commonly found in Mexico, Arizona, Texas, and New Mexico. The plant prefers dry and rocky habitats and can be found growing in deserts, grasslands, and scrublands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Opuntia Stenopetala frost-tolerant?
A: No, the Opuntia Stenopetala is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.Q: Can the fruits of the Opuntia Stenopetala be eaten?
A: Yes, the fruits of the Opuntia Stenopetala are edible and are often used in jams and jellies.Q: How often should the Opuntia Stenopetala be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the Opuntia Stenopetala once a month during the growing season with a balanced cactus fertilizer.Q: Can the Opuntia Stenopetala be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the Opuntia Stenopetala can be grown indoors in a sunny location.
Related Plants
- Opuntia Cymochila
- Opuntia Ficus-Indica
- Opuntia Imbricata
- Opuntia Polyacantha
References
- “Opuntia stenopetala.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c778.
- “Opuntia stenopetala.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/opuntia-stenopetala-1902834.
- “Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia spp.).” University of Florida IFAS Extension, www.edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp007.
