Cochineal Prickly Pear

Opuntia monacantha, Cactaceae

Zones

9–11

Layer

Shrub

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Slow

Guild Roles

ProducerGround CoverPest Confuser

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)

Water

Low (established)Moderate (seedling)

Soil pH

6.5 – 8

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Tree ChollaCylindropuntia cholla

Pollinator SharingBeneficial Insect Habitat

Mexican EpazoteEpazote mexicanum

Pest DeterrentBeneficial Insect Habitat

Heart-leaf Desert RoseMaerua subcordata

Physical SupportBeneficial Insect Habitat

Antagonistic Plants

Moroccan Prickly PearOpuntia ficus-barbarica

Closely related Opuntia species may cross-hybridize and compete, sharing pest loads

Desert Christmas CactusCylindropuntia leptocaulis

Related cacti with shallow root systems competing for surface water and nutrients

Uses

Functions

Living FenceErosion ControlWater Harvesting

Edible Parts

FruitsPads

Medicinal Uses

Anti-InflammatoryDigestive Aid

Common Questions

What zones does Cochineal Prickly Pear grow in?

Cochineal Prickly Pear grows in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11.

What are good companion plants for Cochineal Prickly Pear?

Good companions for Cochineal Prickly Pear include Tree Cholla, Mexican Epazote, Heart-leaf Desert Rose.

Design guilds with Cochineal Prickly Pear and see companion relationships visually.

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