Care of the cactus Opuntia bergeriana or Red-Flower Prickly Pear |
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The genus Opuntia, family Cactaceae, includes some 300 species of cacti native to Mexico, USA and Central and South America. Some species are: Opuntia bergeriana, Opuntia santa-rita, Opuntia rufida, Opuntia robusta, Opuntia microdasys, Opuntia linguiformis, Opuntia leucotricha, Opuntia ficus-indica, Opuntia engelmannii, Opuntia durangensis, Opuntia subulata, Opuntia polyacantha, Opuntia atrispina, Opuntia valida, Opuntia macrocentra, Opuntia chlorotica, Opuntia lindheimeri, Opuntia auberi, Opuntia phaeacantha, Opuntia vestita, Opuntia spinulifera. Common names: Red-Flower Prickly Pear, Broad Prickly Pear. Scientific synonyms: Opuntia elatior. This species is native to the Caribbean, Central America and northern South America. They are cacti with segments 15 cm (5.9") long, bright green and oval in shape. They have brown or gray glochids (areoles with small spines) and yellow central spines. They produce attractive red or orange flowers. They bloom in summer. They are used in gardens in groups, as isolated specimens and in pots. It should be borne in mind that in pots they do not usually flower. Opuntia bergeriana needs a sunny exposure, especially when they are young. In winter it's better that the temperature does not fall below 5 ºC (41 ºF). They grow in any well-drained soil. Water frequently in spring and summer, waiting for the substrate surface to dry. Decrease watering in fall and do not water in winter. Fertilize with compost in the fall. They are resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases. They are propagated by segment cuttings and by seeds; the hard coating surrounding the seeds makes germination difficult. |
Images of the cactus Opuntia bergeriana or Red-Flower Prickly Pear |
 Opuntia bergeriana  Opuntia bergeriana  Opuntia bergeriana  Opuntia bergeriana |