Opuntia gomei 'Old Mexico'
Light: Full sun to light shade. In Phoenix, light afternoon shade can reduce summer scorching; acclimate nursery-grown plants gradually to direct sun.
Water: Low water once established. Water deeply, then let soil dry completely; supplemental watering every 2–4 weeks during prolonged summer drought may be helpful. Keep nearly dry in winter.
Soil: Very well-drained sandy, gravelly, or rocky soil. Use raised planting areas where drainage is poor and a gritty cactus mix in containers.
Mature size: Approximately 4–6 feet tall and 6–8 feet wide, depending on conditions and pruning.
Bloom: Typically late spring to early summer on established plants; flowering varies with sun exposure and growing conditions.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen; flattened green stems remain year-round.
Growth rate: Moderate; faster with warm weather and occasional deep watering.