Opuntia tuna cristata
Ideally, place in a sunny location or in a place with diffused light.
Always water a few days after the substrate has dried out. Do not water in winter.
Cacti require temperatures above 5 °C. The plant is not frost-resistant.
This prickly pear has typical crested growth of segments, thanks to which it creates decorative and unusual shapes.
Opuntia tuna cristata is a crested form of Opuntia tuna, also known as the prickly pear cactus. The original species is endemic to the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and other Caribbean islands. The first description was published in 1753 by Carl Linnaeus under the name Cactus tuna.
The segments are small and light green, and in the crested form they grow in twisted, irregular ridges instead of normal pads. The surface is covered with tiny hair-like spines. The plant has a low, spreading habit and usually stays under about 30 cm in height. Its growth often resembles coral, and every specimen develops a unique shape.
Flowering is generally not expected in crested forms, and Opuntia tuna cristata is mainly cultivated for its unusual growth pattern.
Opuntia tuna cristata is an easy cactus to grow in a very bright position with well-draining soil. Overwatering should be avoided, especially in winter, as it can lead to root rot. During the growing season it can be lightly fed with a standard cactus fertiliser, which is easily available in garden centres. If you are looking for a crested Opuntia with a striking coral-like appearance, this species is an excellent choice.