Opuntia quimilo

$15.00

Opuntia quimilo: The Towering Prickly Pear for a Striking Landscape

Bring a touch of South American grandeur to your garden with Opuntia quimilo, also known as the Quimilo Prickly Pear. Native to Argentina and Bolivia, this impressive cactus is renowned for its tree-like growth habit, capable of reaching heights of 6-12 feet (or even up to 13 feet in optimal conditions!), making it a dramatic focal point in any xeriscape or succulent collection.

All potted plants are local pickup only.

Opuntia quimilo: The Towering Prickly Pear for a Striking Landscape

Bring a touch of South American grandeur to your garden with Opuntia quimilo, also known as the Quimilo Prickly Pear. Native to Argentina and Bolivia, this impressive cactus is renowned for its tree-like growth habit, capable of reaching heights of 6-12 feet (or even up to 13 feet in optimal conditions!), making it a dramatic focal point in any xeriscape or succulent collection.

All potted plants are local pickup only.

Opuntia quimilo

Key Features:

  • Massive Growth Potential: Unlike typical sprawling prickly pears, Opuntia quimilo develops a distinct, robust trunk and broad, paddle-shaped cladodes (pads), evolving into a majestic, multi-branched tree-like form.

  • Distinctive Appearance: Its large, rounded to elliptical green pads provide a classic cactus texture, with moderate, generally sparse spines. Some pads may even display a lovely purplish hue under sun stress.

  • Vibrant Blooms & Edible Fruits: In late spring to early summer, enjoy a spectacular display of shiny carmine to red flowers, often 5-7 cm long. These give way to edible, pear-shaped to globose greenish-yellow fruits, known as "tunas" or "prickly pears," which can be enjoyed fresh or used in various culinary creations.

  • Drought Tolerant & Low Maintenance: Ideal for dry climates and water-wise gardens, Opuntia quimilo is remarkably resilient. Once established, it requires minimal water and tolerates considerable neglect, thriving in full sun and well-draining soil.

  • Versatile Landscape Plant: Perfect for desert-themed gardens, Mediterranean landscapes, large containers, or as a unique specimen in rare plant collections. It's hardy in USDA zones 9-11, tolerating short periods of temperatures down to -5°C (23°F).

Cultivation & Care:

  • Sunlight: Thrives in full sun; ensure young pads are protected from intense, scorching heat until rooted.

  • Soil: Requires well-draining cactus or sandy soil. Avoid excessive humidity, especially in winter.

  • Watering: Water lightly until roots form. Once established, water infrequently and deeply, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.

  • Growth Rate: A relatively fast-growing species, it can form a substantial presence in just a few years.

  • Spines: Be mindful of its moderate spines and the minute, barbed glochids that can easily detach. Handle with care.

Whether you're a seasoned cactus enthusiast or looking for a stunning, low-maintenance addition to your outdoor space, Opuntia quimilo offers an impressive and unique botanical statement.


At-Home Care

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