Opuntia Monacantha 'Variegata'

Common Names: Variegated Prickly Pear, Joseph’s Coat Prickly Pear, Painted Prickly Pear

Appearance

A striking, variegated prickly pear with flat, paddle-like pads featuring irregular patches of green, yellow, and cream.

Pads have clusters of small, sharp spines (glochids) and occasional long, needle-like spines.

Can grow up to 6–10 feet (1.8–3 meters) tall with a sprawling, shrubby form.

Care & Growing Conditions

Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade; bright light enhances variegation.

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

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

Temperature: Thrives in USDA zones 9-11; sensitive to frost and should be kept above 30°F (-1°C).

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

Flower

Produces bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers in late spring to summer.

Flowers are followed by small, red fruits that are sometimes edible.

Toxicity

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