Opuntia Microdasys Cutting

Opuntia Microdasys Cutting

**Where it Grows:**
*Opuntia pilifera* comes from central Mexico and is found in many areas there.

**What It Looks Like:**
Also known as Cocoche loco, Nopal crinado, or piaviachi, this plant is a branching succulent that can grow like a bush or a small tree. While it can reach up to 4–6 meters, it usually stays around 1–2 meters tall.

**Easy to Grow:**
This cactus is very easy to care for. It doesn’t need much attention and can grow well in dry, warm places outdoors.

**How Fast It Grows:**
It grows pretty quickly and can make large clumps in just a few years.

**Sun Needs:**
It loves full sunlight. If it’s placed in shade, it may not produce many flowers.

**Cold Tolerance:**
It can survive short periods of cold, even as low as –5°C.

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### **How to Propagate Opuntia pilifera from Cuttings**

If you’d like to grow more of this cactus, here’s how to do it from a stem cutting:

1. **Take a Healthy Cutting:**
Use a clean knife to cut a healthy pad (stem segment) from the main plant. Try to cut at the base of the pad.

2. **Let It Dry (Very Important!):**
Place the cutting in a dry, shaded area for about 5–10 days. This helps the cut end form a callus and prevents rot.

3. **Plant in Well-Draining Soil:**
Once it has dried, plant the callused end in a cactus or succulent soil mix. Bury it just deep enough to stand upright.

4. **Water Lightly at First:**
Wait a few days after planting before watering. Then water very lightly—just enough to keep the soil barely moist. Once it establishes roots, you can water as you would a regular cactus (only when the soil is dry).

5. **Place in a Sunny Spot:**
Keep the cutting in a bright, sunny spot. With time and care, it should start to root and grow.