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Ships within 48 hours · Estimated delivery Jul 14 - Jul 19
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Description
prickly pear cactus pads Opuntia Cochenillifera Pads (Prickly Pear / Nopales) – Kesslers CactiOpuntia cochenillifera (Pads Only)Common Name: Prickly Pear, Nopales, Velvet Opuntia Opuntia cochenillifera is a beautiful and spineless variety of prickly pear cactus, best known for its smooth, paddle shaped pads and usefulness in culinary and ornamental gardens alike. Also called Nopales or Velvet Opuntia, this fast growing cactus has been cultivated for centuries in Mexico and Central America for both its edible pads and its role in cochineal dye
Opuntia cochenillifera (Pads Only)
Common Name: Prickly Pear, Nopales, Velvet Opuntia
Opuntia cochenillifera is a beautiful and spineless variety of prickly pear cactus, best known for its smooth, paddle-shaped pads and usefulness in culinary and ornamental gardens alike. Also called Nopales or Velvet Opuntia, this fast-growing cactus has been cultivated for centuries in Mexico and Central America for both its edible pads and its role in cochineal dye production.
This listing is for unrooted pads only—perfect for propagation. The pads are thick, fleshy, and easy to root, making them a great choice for beginners or anyone looking to grow their own edible cactus. With time, it can grow into a tall, shrubby plant up to 6–12 feet high, producing vibrant red to pink flowers and sometimes edible fruit.
☀ Light Requirements
Thrives in full sun. Outdoors, place in the sunniest location possible. Indoors, give it bright light near a south-facing window.
💧 Watering Needs
Allow pads to callous for 3–5 days before planting in well-draining soil. Water lightly after planting, then sparingly until roots are established. Once rooted, water only when the soil is fully dry.
🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Can tolerate short dips to 28–30°F once mature, but protect young pads from frost. Add a [Heat Pack] when ordering in cold weather.
✨ Special Features
• Edible Nopales – Popular in traditional Mexican cuisine
• Smooth & Nearly Spineless – Easy to handle and harvest
• Fast-Growing & Adaptable – Great for landscaping or large containers
Other Common Names:
Nopal, Velvet Cactus, Edible Prickly Pear, Cochineal Cactus
This cactus will ship bare root and will be ready to place directly in a well draining soil mix like our Custom Cactus Mix.
Photos in the listings unless otherwise specified are representative of the plant that will be sent to you.
However, Plants grow differently and each plant may vary slightly in shape, size, growth pattern, etc.
Of course, if you receive a plant that you are dissatisfied with please reach out to us. We want to make it right!
If temperatures near you are below 45℉ we highly recommend adding a Heat Pack to your order.
If temperatures where you live will be much lower than 20℉ even heat packs may not work. You may consider waiting until things warm up a bit. We know you love your plants just like we do and we wouldn't want any of them to freeze.
Shipping Notes
- Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
- Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
- Delivery to the USA:
- Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
- If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
- We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
- Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
- To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
- Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy