Weeping Opuntia, Barbary Fig
opuntia monacantha
Also known as: ["Weeping Fig","Barbary Fig","Common Prickly Pear"]
Overview
A species of cactus native to South America, characterized by its flat, oval-shaped pads and edible fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Opuntia |
| Botanical Name: | Opuntia monacantha |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in arid or semi-arid regions, or indoor pot in a sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–45°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with direct sunlight; tolerates partial shade but may etiolate or produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; avoid sudden exposure to intense midday sun; place indoors near a south-facing window if outdoors is not possible.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh afternoon sun; move outdoors in spring/summer for optimal light.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks in summer, every 4–6 weeks in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; top-dress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good ventilation in hot climates.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer if available.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings ( pads ); division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy pad.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), bright indirect light, high humidity (e.g., propagation dome).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pot, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow pads to callus before planting; use a sterile knife to prevent rot; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut pads cleanly with a sharp tool; allow cuts to callus before handling or repotting.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead, damaged, or overgrown pads to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
Tools
Sterile knife or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; sterilize tools; cut cleanly; let wounds callus.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary if growth slows or soil degrades.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water sparingly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply during active growth (spring/summer) every 1–2 weeks, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Cold stress: darkening pads, limpness; heat stress: wilting, yellowing, or sunburn spots on pads.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause cellular damage, leading to pad discoloration or necrosis.
Solution: Move indoors during frost or prolonged cold; provide a warm, sunny location; avoid drafty areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or scorching of pads, especially if watered improperly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; water deeply in early morning; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Opuntia monacantha. The spines and glochids can cause physical injury, particularly to the mouth and digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Opuntia monacantha by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to oxalic acid content. The spines and glochids pose a physical hazard, potentially causing injury to the mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOpuntia monacantha, commonly known as the drooping prickly pear, contains oxalic acid and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The spines and glochids (small barbed hairs) can also cause physical irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Opuntia monacantha edible?
A: Yes, the fruits (tunas) are edible and often used in jams and beverages.
Q: How often should I water Opuntia monacantha?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Can Opuntia monacantha be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors in bright, sunny conditions, but it thrives best outdoors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks in summer, e |
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