Opuntia macrocentra – cactus de gradina cu spini lungi si fructe comestibile

Opuntia macrocentra is a spectacular species of cactus in the Cactaceae family, native to the desert regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Also known as the "purple rabbit ear cactus" or "purple prickly pear" , this plant is highly valued for its distinctive decorative appearance and ability to adapt to extreme drought conditions.

This cactus is not only ornamental – it also produces edible fruits, similar to those of the Indian fig (cactus fruit), sweet-sour and rich in antioxidants.

🔹 Botanical characteristics:

• Full name: Opuntia macrocentra
• Family: Cactaceae
• Plant type: perennial succulent
• Leaves: transformed into thorns – some long, dark in color (hence the name "macrocentra")
• Stems: segmented (cladodia), flat and oval, in shades of blue-green that acquire intense purple tones in strong sunlight or under conditions of water stress
• Flowers: yellow, large and attractive, with a red or orange center – appear in spring or summer
• Fruits: edible, pear-shaped, red-purple in color

🔸 Growing conditions:

• Light: prefers exposure to direct sunlight , where its purple color intensifies
• Temperature: resistant to temperatures down to -12°C , ideal for xeric or rocky gardens
• Soil: well-drained, sandy or stony
• Watering: reduced – once every 2–3 weeks in the warm season; in winter it requires rare or no watering
• Fertilization: minimal – a fertilizer for cacti during the active growth period

🌿 Uses and benefits:

• Ideal for rock gardens, rockeries, rustic planters or cactus collections
• Attractive in landscaping due to its unique color and spectacular flowering
• Extremely drought-resistant plant, easy to maintain
• The flowers attract pollinators , and the fruits can be eaten fresh or processed.

📌 Note: Handling with gloves is recommended - the thorns can be long and sharp.

Height with pot included: 15 cm