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    Wilderly

    Opuntia 10"

    $105.00
    $105.00

    Opuntia, commonly known as the prickly pear cactus, is a genus within the Cactaceae family, encompassing approximately 150 to 180 species native to the Americas. These plants are characterized by their flat, rounded pads and vibrant, showy flowers.

    Key Characteristics:

    • Foliage: Opuntia species feature thick, fleshy pads that store water, enabling them to thrive in arid environments.

    • Flowers: They produce large, colorful blooms, often yellow, orange, or red, which are attractive to pollinators.

    • Fruit: The plants bear distinctive pear-shaped fruits, known as "tunas," which are edible and enjoyed in various culinary applications.

    Habitat and Distribution:

    Opuntia species are predominantly found in the Americas, ranging from the southern United States through Central and South America. They are well-adapted to dry, desert-like conditions but can also be found in tropical and subtropical regions.

    Cultivation and Uses:

    • Edible Uses: Both the pads and fruits of certain Opuntia species are edible. The pads, known as "nopales," are commonly used in Mexican cuisine, while the fruits are enjoyed fresh or processed into jams and jellies.

    • Ornamental Uses: Many Opuntia species are cultivated for their unique appearance and vibrant flowers, making them popular in xeriscaping and as ornamental plants.

    • Medicinal Uses: Some species have been used in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

    Care Requirements:

    • Light: Opuntia plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

    • Soil: They thrive in well-draining, sandy or loamy soils.

    • Watering: These cacti are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering once established.

    • Temperature: They are generally hardy in USDA zones 3 to 11, depending on the species.

    Considerations:

    While Opuntia species are generally low-maintenance, it's important to handle them with care due to their spines and glochids, which can cause skin irritation. Additionally, some species can become invasive in certain regions, so it's advisable to check local guidelines before planting.

    Incorporating Opuntia into your landscape can provide both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, especially in drought-prone areas.
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      We believe in fair market pricing and never overprice our products just because they are “rare.” We strive to always be at or below average market value.

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      We are professionals, not hobbyists. You can be sure your plants are cared for to the highest standards. Our team of plant enthusiasts are knowledgeable and always ready to assist you with any questions or concerns.

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      We have built our own innovative and sustainable rare plant nursery located in Edmonton, AB, where we propogate, grow, and care for 90% of our collection. This means you will never recieve sad plants from recent imports.

    FAQs

    Do you ship year-round?

    Yes – we ship every week of the year! However, in the case of extreme weather conditions or emergency situations (e.g. flooding/fires that would interupt couriers), we may delay shipping until it is safe to ship.

    How long will it take to recieve my order?

    We always choose overnight or express shipping options. Once shipped, most orders arrive in 1-2 days in Canada and the USA. Depending on your location, shipping might take longer. Occassionally, customs clearance might take an additional day.

    Where do products ship from?

    We ship orders from our store or specialized grow facility in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

    Do I recieve a tracking number?

    A tracking number will be emailed to you once your order has shipped. You can also find your order and tracking information under your account.

    What's the process to return an item if I decide I don'twant it?

    We will gladly accept returns for a refund, provided the items and plants have not been damaged, propogated, or repotted. Returned plants are subject to a 10% restocking fee, due to the recovery care needed for returned plants, and shipping/permit costs are nonrefundable. Customers are responsible for return shipping costs as well as all paperwork required to ship back to Canada (e.g. phytosanitary certificates).