opuntia
subulata
subulata
Care level
Easy
Unlike its paddle-shaped relatives, this unique cactus grows long, pencil-thin stems that can reach impressive heights of up to 13 feet tall. Each stem is decorated with unusually long spines and produces charming yellow flowers that transform into elongated red fruits, giving it an almost alien-like appearance.
Care & maintenance
Light
Light that enters through west or south-facing windows, the most intense light for your interior that will expose plants directly to sunlight.
Temperature
Wide range (5°C - 35°C)
Fertilization frequency
Low
Once per season.
Soil
Choose a Cactus mix: A gritty, fast-draining mix that prevents water retention. Replicates the sandy, rocky soils of arid regions.
If you want to create your own substrate, you can make a mixture of the following soils:
Click on the soil name for more information.
Pot
Standard size
Prefer a pot with a classic width/depth ratio.
Incorrect or incomplete information?
In our goal of building the best plant database, we sometimes make mistakes or have incomplete information. You can help us fill these gaps!
Features
Size & growth
Large
Upright
Slow growth
This plant grows slowly. It can reach 90 to 180 cm in height or spread.
It grows upwards without support.
Toxicity
| Cat | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog | |||
| Human |
Reproduction & propagation
Fruits & flowers
Flowering & not self-pollinating
The opuntia subulata can produce flowers and therefore fruits.
This plant is not capable of self-pollination, it will not be able to produce fruits if it is not pollinated by another individual.