Opuntia Consolea rubescens - Road Kill cactus

Meet the wonderfully odd Opuntia consolea rubescens, affectionately nicknamed the Road Kill Cactus for its flat, paddle-like stems that splay dramatically as it grows. This sculptural prickly pear relative is perfect for adding desert character to your collection. Its blue-green pads can flush with pink or red tones in strong light, and mature plants sometimes produce showy orange blooms. A true conversation piece for any sunny spot.

Plant Care 

Light: Cacti need bright light to survive. My rule of thumb is always to let them have a view of the sky. The best bet is a sunny windowsill.

Watering: These plants are drought tolerant. Only water when the soil completely dries out, as overwatering can quickly kill these plants. Cut way back on watering in winter. Be sure to water the soil directly and avoid splashing on the pads as sitting water can cause fungal issues. 

Temperature: 15-27°C is ideal, but it can go as low as 10°C, try to avoid any drafts below 4°C.

Potting: A well-draining mix is ideal for this plant. Our Savvy Succa would be a great fit.

Hot tips: This is not a fan of humidity, so avoid those steamy bathrooms.

Pet Friendly: Yes, but the spikes can cause irritation so best to place it out of reach of your furry friends or small humans.