Opuntia articulata var. papyracantha

paper spine cactus
This quirky cactus grows in loosely attached pinecone-like segments with papery spines. White or yellow flowers.
synonyms Tephrocactus articulata var. papyracantha
height 6–12
width 18–24
tolerates Drought, Heat, Pots, Wind
water
needs		 Low
water
info		 Opuntia are extremely drought-tolerant, but this one does appreciate summer water, once dry. Plants will show that they are thirsty when their leaves begin to shrivel and, if drought persists, fall off.

To keep your opuntia plump and lush-looking, water it every two or three weeks during the summer.

Opuntias prefer good drainage, but they are tolerant of a wide range of soils.

This plant prefers an exceptionally hot spot and should only be grown in the most sheltered warm spots near the coast in California.
hardy
to		 15F
exposure Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil
fertilizing All Purpose, Low Needs
origin W Argentina
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 12–24

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

OUTDOOR EXPOSURE GUIDE

Full Sun
Six or more hours of sun beams directly landing on the plant's leaves.

Part Shade
Three to five hours of sun beams directly landing on the plant's leaves.

Part Sun
One to two hours of sun beams directly landing on the plants leaves.

Full Shade
The plant is never fully lit by sun beams, but is in a bright spot or has dappled sunbeams playing over the leaves throughout the day.

Deep Shade
The plant never has dappled light on the leaves, and is in a place that feels dim, even on a nice sunny day.

SUNSET ZONES MAP

Growing Notes

Segments are easily rooted and grown into new plants.
Hardiness number requires a dry winter and if this cactus is exposed to cold winter rains be sure to amend the soil with 50% prumice to 50% cactus mix to avoid rot.