The Orange Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica)—also known as Nopal or Indian Fig—is a hardy, sun-loving cactus cultivated for its ornamental flowers and edible fruits. Known for its brilliant orange blooms and colorful, sweet-tart fruits, this resilient species adds striking texture and color to any xeriscape or container garden.
These non-GMO cactus seeds produce fast-growing succulents that thrive in full sun and dry soils. Perfect for desert landscapes, rock gardens, or container growing, the Orange Prickly Pear combines beauty, versatility, and sustainability.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Opuntia ficus-indica |
| Common Names | Prickly Pear, Nopal, Indian Fig |
| Plant Type | Perennial Cactus |
| Flower Color | Orange |
| Fruit Color | Red to orange-red |
| Season | Summer bloom; fall fruiting |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 8–11 |
| Growth Habit | Clumping, spreading cactus |
| Mature Height | 6–15 ft |
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil; pH 6.0–8.0 |
| Water Needs | Low; drought-tolerant once established |
| Heirloom | Yes |
| GMO Status | Non-GMO |
| Organic Option | Available (check variant) |
| Bloom Time | Late spring to summer |
| Pollination | Self-fertile; pollinator-attracting flowers |
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 24–48 hours to soften hard shells.
- Sowing Depth: ¼ inch deep in cactus soil mix or sandy medium.
- Germination Time: 2–6 weeks at 75–90°F.
- Light Requirements: Bright light or full sun.
- Watering: Mist soil lightly; do not overwater. Allow soil to dry between waterings.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings to individual pots after developing small pads.
- Maintenance: Minimal—avoid overwatering and protect from frost.
Growing Tips
- Ideal for desert gardens, xeriscapes, and container planting.
- Water sparingly—too much moisture can cause root rot.
- Use sandy, well-draining soil to prevent compaction.
- Pads (nopales) and fruits (tunas) are edible when prepared properly.
- Can tolerate extreme heat and poor soils once mature.
