Opuntia ficus-indica (Prickly Pear Cactus) ‘Morado’
Morado is a popular cultivar, minimal to thorn-free leaves, easy to handle, light-green skin, delicate white flesh, unique tropical taste, subtly sweet flavor, a market favorite, bright yellow flowers. Full sun, water once a week in summer and once every 2 weeks in winter, grows on most well-draining soil types, extremely drought tolerant, also tolerant of high rainfall if soil is very well-drainined. Recommended plant spacing for Morado in Zambia is 3m apart in rows and 5m between rows (660 plants per hectare).
Price range: ZK100.00 through ZK180.00
Opuntia ficus-indica (Prickly Pear Cactus) 'Morado'
Prickly Pear 'Morado' is a productive, drought-tolerant cactus variety prized for its attractive purple-red fruit with sweet, juicy flesh. The delicious fruit can be enjoyed fresh or made into juices, jams, jellies, syrups, and desserts. The young pads (nopales) are also edible when harvested and prepared correctly.
Well adapted to hot, dry climates, 'Morado' is an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and orchards. Once established, it requires very little maintenance and produces reliable crops year after year. The fruit is a nutritious source of vitamin C, antioxidants, fibre, and essential minerals.
Growing Information:
Botanical name: Opuntia ficus-indica
Plant type: Evergreen succulent cactus
Height: 2–5 m
Sunlight: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained sandy or gravelly soil
Water: Low water requirements; drought tolerant once established
Harvest: Late summer to autumn
Uses: Fresh fruit, juices, jams, jellies, syrups, edible pads (nopales), and ornamental landscaping
A hardy, low-maintenance fruiting cactus that combines outstanding drought tolerance with attractive, flavourful fruit, making it an excellent addition to home gardens and orchards.
