Opuntia robusta

Also known as: Information to be completed

A shrubby or tree-like cactus, to 2m tall in its native Mexico, with stems composed of thick, flat, rounded, greyish or bluish segments to 40cm across. 2-12 spines arise from each areole. Mature plants produce shallowly bowl-shaped, yellow flowers to 7cm across in summer, followed by spherical, red fruits; but neither flowers nor fruit are likely to be produced in the UK

Scientific classification

Species: Opuntia robusta (Opuntia robusta)
Genus: Opuntia
Family: Cactaceae

Skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Toxicity: Cactus Succulent
Plant type: 0.5-1 metres
Height: 0.5-1 metres
Spread: Evergreen
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Autumn · Spring · Summer · Winter
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Opuntia robusta pictures

Distribution of Opuntia robusta

Distribution map

Mexico

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Culture

Information to be completed

Toxicity

Skin/eye irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling

Quick identification of Opuntia robusta

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Opuntia robusta care guide

Moderate regular watering, avoid prolonged drought or waterlogging
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, avoid prolonged drought or waterlogging

Fertilizing

Balanced feed in spring and light repeat in growth season

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by seed in spring. Separate and root stem sections. Handle plants using folded newspaper and dispose of it after use

Growing

Under glass grow in sharply-draining loam based compost (JI No2) with added sharp sand or perlite, or a proprietary cactus compost. Provide full light at all times and allow compost to dry before watering during growth period in spring, summer and early autumn and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser three or four times. Withhold water and fertiliser in winter when dormant. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice

More growing and care information →