Sun: full sun to partial shade
Water: Typical water needs for a succulent
Temperature: Zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C) to Zone 10b from 35° F to 40° F (1.7° C to 4.4° C)
Winter Survival: Cold hardy to 0°C
Propagation: cuttings, seeds
Flower: in the Spring or Summer
Flower Type: purple-red
Toxic: Generally non-toxic to humans and animals
Dormant: winter
Space Requirement: Outdoors
Common Problems: Plants may rot if overwatered
Where to buy Nopalea cochenillifera?
Basc Care for Nopalea cochenillifera
Watering
Watering for Nopalea cochenillifera is a simple task. It requires Typical water needs for a succulent.
Regular watering period should be every 2 weeks
Fertilizing
Only feed this succulent during its active growing seasons which means winter. Use the right fertilizer applied in the right amounts. Applying half-strength balanced fertilizer every month or so is recommended for optimal results.
Do not fertilize during winter as the plant is dormant.
Sun & Location Requirements for "Kaktus nopales, Nagphani, Nopales, Prickly pear, Puchikalli, Tay-cui, True Nopal"
Nopalea cochenillifera needs full sun to partial shade in order to thrive. While this variety needs plenty of bright light, it is important not to place it in direct sunlight for extended periods of time as this can cause damage or scorching to the leaves and stems. A shadier spot with indirect light could be just what "Kaktus nopales, Nagphani, Nopales, Prickly pear, Puchikalli, Tay-cui, True Nopal" needs.
As per this succulent profile, it is only able to stay healthy when the environment temperature is above the range of zone 9a from 20° F to 25° F (-6.7 ° C to -3.9° C).
Nopalea cochenillifera is an incredibly resilient species that can survive temperatures as low as 0°F. It has a thick, waxy cuticle that helps protect it from frost damage, and its leaves are able to retain moisture in even the most arid environments. Its deep root system further helps it survive even the coldest winter conditions.
Any succulents in the group will need a large space to grow. You should place your pot outdoor. Since this plant needs a lot of space than other succulents, you should consider not planting them together with other succulents/plants.
Nopalea cochenillifera also benefits from some indirect light throughout the day as well, so make sure you give it enough space to soak up light without becoming too exposed to heat.
Propagation
One way to propagate Nopalea cochenillifera is by cutting
Propagating Nopalea cochenillifera from seeds is a great way to produce new plants without relying on cuttings or divisions. It's important to look for healthy, dark and plump seeds that are slightly sticky when touched. The soil should be pre-mixed with well-draining potting mix, before evenly sowing the seeds and pressing them into the surface. To ensure successful germination, gentle misting of the soil should be done and placed in indirect light.
Toxicity
Nopalea cochenillifera is generally non-toxic to humans and animals. However, it is important to be aware that certain parts of the plant may contain toxins which can cause mild skin irritation. It is advised that you keep the plants away from small children or pets, as they may unknowingly ingest them and suffer ill effects.
