Opuntia Argentiniana

Common Names: Argentine Prickly Pear, Quisco Argentino, Argentine Pear Cactus

Appearance

A shrubby, branching cactus with flat, oval-shaped green pads.

Pads are covered in clusters of sharp, golden spines along with small, hair-like glochids that detach easily.

Can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall and spread widely.

Care & Growing Conditions

Light: Prefers full sun; strong sunlight encourages healthy growth and spine development.

Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or cactus mix soil.

Watering: Drought-tolerant; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.

Temperature: Thrives in USDA zones 8-11; can withstand mild frost but should be protected from prolonged freezing temperatures below 25°F (-4°C).

Humidity: Prefers dry conditions and does not tolerate excessive moisture.

Flower

Produces large, bright yellow flowers with numerous petals in late spring to summer.

Flowers are followed by small, reddish-purple edible fruits.

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets, but the spines and glochids can cause skin irritation if touched.

Special Notes

Edible Fruit (Tunas): The fruit, or tuna, is edible and widely used in South American cuisine, often eaten raw, juiced, or used in jams and desserts. The fruit has a sweet, juicy, and slightly tangy flavor.

The cactus is also used for its medicinal properties, with some traditional uses in treating digestive issues, diabetes, and as an anti-inflammatory.

The tunas can be harvested in late summer or fall when they are fully ripe, often turning red or yellow. Climatic Adaptability: Though native to warm regions, Opuntia argentiniana can also survive in coastal and arid conditions, making it a versatile addition to desert gardens or xeriscaping.