Opuntia Cochenillifera Pads (Prickly Pear / Nopales)

Opuntia cochenillifera (Pads Only)
Common Name: Prickly Pear, Nopales, Velvet Opuntia

Opuntia cochenillifera is a beautiful and spineless variety of prickly pear cactus, best known for its smooth, paddle-shaped pads and usefulness in culinary and ornamental gardens alike. Also called Nopales or Velvet Opuntia, this fast-growing cactus has been cultivated for centuries in Mexico and Central America for both its edible pads and its role in cochineal dye production.

This listing is for unrooted pads only—perfect for propagation. The pads are thick, fleshy, and easy to root, making them a great choice for beginners or anyone looking to grow their own edible cactus. With time, it can grow into a tall, shrubby plant up to 6–12 feet high, producing vibrant red to pink flowers and sometimes edible fruit.

☀ Light Requirements
Thrives in full sun. Outdoors, place in the sunniest location possible. Indoors, give it bright light near a south-facing window.

💧 Watering Needs
Allow pads to callous for 3–5 days before planting in well-draining soil. Water lightly after planting, then sparingly until roots are established. Once rooted, water only when the soil is fully dry.

🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Can tolerate short dips to 28–30°F once mature, but protect young pads from frost. Add a [Heat Pack] when ordering in cold weather.

✨ Special Features
• Edible Nopales – Popular in traditional Mexican cuisine
• Smooth & Nearly Spineless – Easy to handle and harvest
• Fast-Growing & Adaptable – Great for landscaping or large containers

Other Common Names:
Nopal, Velvet Cactus, Edible Prickly Pear, Cochineal Cactus

This cactus will ship bare root and will be ready to place directly in a well draining soil mix like our Custom Cactus Mix.

Photos in the listings unless otherwise specified are representative of the plant that will be sent to you.
However, Plants grow differently and each plant may vary slightly in shape, size, growth pattern, etc.
Of course, if you receive a plant that you are dissatisfied with please reach out to us. We want to make it right!

If temperatures near you are below 45℉ we highly recommend adding a Heat Pack to your order.
If temperatures where you live will be much lower than 20℉ even heat packs may not work. You may consider waiting until things warm up a bit. We know you love your plants just like we do and we wouldn't want any of them to freeze.