Paddle-shaped succulent producing edible fruit. Naturalised in many warm regions.
Hardiness ratings
| System | Rating | Temperature range | How to read it |
|---|---|---|---|
| USDA hardiness zone | Zone 8–11 | −12.2 °C to 10 °C | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| RHS hardiness rating | H3 | −5 °C to 1 °C | Plant needs at least this level of cold tolerance |
| Canadian plant hardiness zone | Zone 8–9 | −7 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
| Australian (ANBG) zone | Zone 4–7 | 0 °C and warmer | Plant tolerates down to this zone |
About Cactus (prickly pear)
Prickly pear is the classic cautionary tale of biological invasion and biological control. Introduced to Australia and left unchecked, it overran an enormous area of eastern grazing country by the 1920s, rendering it useless. The infestation was broken by the deliberate introduction of the moth Cactoblastis cactorum, whose larvae bore into the pads — one of the most complete and frequently cited successes in biological control. The plant is also the traditional host of the cochineal insect, from which the deep red dye of the same name is obtained.
Growing notes
- Can become invasive in suitable climates
- Hates winter wet
Categories
Related plants
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