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

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.