{"product_id":"polka-dot-cactus-opuntia-macrocalyx","title":"Opuntia macrocalyx - Polka-Dot Cactus","description":"\u003cp\u003eWith its rounded, blue-green pads covered in neat clusters of tiny white glochids, Opuntia macrocalyx is a distinctive prickly pear cactus that brings character and architectural interest to any plant collection. Despite its playful appearance, this drought-tolerant species is incredibly hardy and thrives with very little maintenance, making it an excellent choice for sunny windowsills and cactus displays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOpuntia macrocalyx\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe species name macrocalyx comes from the Greek words makros (large) and kalyx (calyx), referring to the plant’s prominent floral structures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommon Name(s)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePolka-Dot Cactus, Prickly Pear Cactus\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eNative to Mexico and the southern United States, where it grows in dry, rocky habitats with plenty of sunshine and excellent drainage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLight\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThrives in bright light and enjoys several hours of direct sun each day. A south- or west-facing windowsill is ideal. Insufficient light can lead to stretched, weak growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAllow the compost to dry out completely between waterings. Water thoroughly, then allow all excess water to drain away. During winter, water only occasionally while the plant is resting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHumidity\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePrefers low humidity and dry air. Average household conditions are ideal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTemperature\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePrefers temperatures between 18–30°C during the growing season. Protect from frost and prolonged temperatures below 5°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoil\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePlant in a free-draining cactus and succulent compost, ideally with added grit or perlite to maximise drainage and reduce the risk of root rot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eFeed once a month during spring and summer with a diluted cactus fertiliser. No feeding is required during autumn and winter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Habit\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA slow to moderate-growing cactus that forms branching pads over time, eventually developing into a compact, shrubby specimen. Mature plants may produce large yellow flowers followed by colourful fruits when grown in ideal conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eToxicity\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eNon-toxic to pets and humans. However, the tiny glochids (hair-like spines) can easily become embedded in the skin and are irritating to handle.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sprouts of Bristol","offers":[{"title":"17cm","offer_id":43132300329213,"sku":"CF1941","price":42.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0490\/2774\/3905\/files\/opuntia-macrocalyx-polka-dot-cactus-sprouts-of-bristol-sprouts-of-bristol-3984522.jpg?v=1786712853","url":"https:\/\/sproutsofbristol.pro\/products\/polka-dot-cactus-opuntia-macrocalyx","provider":"Sprouts of Bristol","version":"1.0","type":"link"}