Opuntia pailana - cactus cu spini albi si forma sculpturala

Opuntia pailana is a species of cactus native to Mexico, rarely found in commerce, but highly prized by collectors for its graphic appearance and distinctive stem color . The plant forms large, flat, dull bluish-green fronds, covered with areoles provided with long, thin, yellow-brown spines , which give it a wild and ornamental air.

In good light and heat conditions, it can produce yellow flowers , sometimes followed by small fruits. It is a moderate to fast growing plant, ideal for desert-inspired gardens, but also for large pots placed in sunny spaces.

🌵 Botanical characteristics:

• Full name: Opuntia pailana

• Family: Cactaceae

• Origin: Mexico

• Shape: stem composed of flat, blue-green blades

• Spines: long, thin, golden yellow, grouped on prominent areoles

• Flowers: yellow, with reddish center (rare flowering in culture)

• Fruits: small, round, sometimes edible

☀️ Growing conditions:

• Light: prefers direct light and sun exposure – essential for the blue coloration

• Temperature: optimum between 20–32°C; withstands up to approx. -2°C if kept dry

• Watering: rare – the substrate must dry completely between waterings; in the cold season, water minimally

• Soil: very well drained – substrate for cacti, with generous addition of sand or gravel

• Fertilization: monthly in the warm season, with fertilizer for cacti and succulents

✔️ Advantages and uses:

• Rare and decorative plant, ideal for collectors

• Foliage with a blue-green hue, with strong visual impact

• Suitable for xeric gardens, large pots or sunny terraces

• Easy to maintain, with low water requirements

• Creates an excellent contrast in arrangements with other succulents or decorative rocks

Height with pot included: approx. 15 cm