Care and Propagation Information
General Care for Opuntia macrocentra “Black-spined Pricklypear”
Opuntia macrocentra “Black-spined Pricklypear” is an excellent rock gardens and xeriscaped yards. It is deer-resistant, and its flowers attract hummingbirds.
Watering
Opuntia macrocentra “Black-spined Pricklypear” has typical watering needs for a succulent. It's best to use the “soak and dry” method, and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Where to Plant
“Black-spined Pricklypear” is cold hardy down to 10°F (-12.2° C). It does well in full to partial sun.
Plant in an area of your garden that gets 6 hours of sunlight a day. If planting indoors, place in a room that gets a lot of sunlight, such as near a southern-facing window (if you're in the Northern Hemisphere).
How to Propagate Opuntia macrocentra “Black-spined Pricklypear”
Opuntia macrocentra “Black-spined Pricklypear” can be propagated from stem cuttings or seed.
Cuttings
To grow “Black-spined Pricklypear” from cuttings, use a sterile, sharp knife or pair of scissors. Remove a stem from the main plant, and allow it to callous for several days before placing on well-draining soil. Water whenever the soil has dried out completely.
To learn how to properly propagate cactus pads, take a look at this post.
Seeds
To propagate “Black-spined Pricklypear” from seeds, sow your seeds in a well-draining soil. You can grow Opuntia seeds outdoors if you live in an zone above 9a. If you live in a cooler area, you can begin sowing indoors under a grow light or on a seed mat.
