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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Blind prickly pear
(Opuntia pottsii)
Also Known As
Blind prickly pear, Potts' prickly pear, Potts' cactus
About This Plant
Opuntia pottsii is a species of cactus native to Mexico. It has large, flat, and round pads that are covered in spines. The plant produces yellow flowers in the summer and edible fruits that are red or yellow.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Height: 6-12 feet (1.8-3.7 m), Width: 6-8 feet (1.8-2.4 m)
Light Requirements
Opuntia pottsii requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate direct sunlight for several hours a day.
Humidity Needs
Opuntia pottsii prefers low humidity levels and can tolerate dry air.
Fertilizing Schedule
Opuntia pottsii does not require fertilizer, but you can feed it with a cactus-specific fertilizer during the growing season.
Pruning Guidelines
Prune Opuntia pottsii in the spring to remove any dead or damaged pads. Wear gloves when pruning to protect your hands from the spines.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests for Opuntia pottsii include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. The plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases if overwatered.
Indoor Size Range
N/A
Watering Schedule
This cactus is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering. Water the plant when the soil is completely dry.
Temperature Range
This cactus can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from 20°F (-6°C) to 100°F (38°C).
Growing Season
Opuntia pottsii grows actively in the spring and summer. It goes dormant in the fall and winter.
Growing Difficulty Level
Opuntia pottsii is relatively easy to grow and maintain. It is a great choice for beginners.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Opuntia pottsii is hardy in USDA zones 9a-11b.
Did You Know?
Opuntia pottsii is named after the American botanist, Dennis Potts, who collected the type specimen in 1963.
