Emm's Plant House

Opuntia rubescens 'Consolea' 13cm H35cm

£23.00 GBP

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Pot Size 13cm H35cm

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Opuntia rubescens 'Consolea', also known as the Red-Tipped Prickly Pear, is a unique variety of the Opuntia cactus species. Known for its attractive red tips on the pads and its vibrant, green body, this cactus is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It forms a branching, bushy growth habit and can produce bright yellow flowers during the blooming season. Opuntia rubescens 'Consolea' is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun, making it an excellent addition to desert-themed gardens or as a potted plant in sunny spots.

Full Botanical Name: Opuntia rubescens 'Consolea'
Common Names: Red-Tipped Prickly Pear
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in arid, rocky conditions, typically in desert regions where it thrives in well-draining, sandy soils and receives full sunlight.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers full sun. It thrives in bright, direct sunlight and benefits from exposure to at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Too much shade can lead to weak growth and reduced flowering.

Ideal Room: Ideal for sunny spots such as windowsills, patios, or desert-themed gardens. It can also be kept in containers, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.

Feeding: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced cactus fertilizer. Over-fertilizing can lead to weak growth, so it’s best to fertilize every 6-8 weeks. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter months when growth slows.

Humidity: Prefers low humidity, typical of desert environments. It will thrive in dry indoor spaces and does not require additional moisture in the air.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. As a drought-tolerant succulent, it prefers to be on the drier side. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure good drainage in the pot.

Pet/Child Safe: Toxic to pets (cats and dogs) and children if ingested. The plant’s spines can also cause injury if handled without care, so take precautions when handling.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A mix designed specifically for cacti ensures proper drainage and prevents water retention around the roots.

Propagation: Propagate by stem cuttings or pads. Simply cut a healthy pad, let the cut end callous over for a few days, and then plant it in dry, well-draining soil. Rooting hormones can be applied to encourage faster rooting.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm) tall with a spread of 2-3 feet (60-90 cm). It forms a branching, bushy growth habit with flattened pads that develop a striking red hue at the tips.

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate-growing. Opuntia rubescens 'Consolea' grows steadily over time, but it does not require frequent maintenance or repotting.

Pests and Treatment: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract mealybugs, aphids, or scale insects. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap to keep the plant healthy.

Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage to promote healthy root growth.

Pruning: Prune dead or damaged pads regularly to maintain a tidy appearance. Pruning can also help control the plant’s size and encourage fuller growth from the base.

Air Purification: Like many succulents, Opuntia rubescens 'Consolea' helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making it a beneficial addition to your home or office.

Folklore: Cacti, including Opuntia species, are often associated with resilience and endurance due to their ability to thrive in harsh environments. They are believed to bring stability, protection, and positive energy to their surroundings.

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