Opuntia monacantha f. monstruosa variegata commonly known as “Joseph’s Coat” is one of the very few naturally occurring white-variegated cacti. It is a dwarf, teratological variant of the larger Prickly Pear cactus Opuntia monacantha. As its name suggests, this cactus is variegated or marbled with white, creamy-white, yellow, green and sometimes also with pink in varying patterns.

Growth rate: It is a fast growing species. It branches profusely from the side and near the tips and can form a 50-100 cm tall shrub in just a few years given the best conditions.

Soils: It likes very porous standard cactus mix soil with more organic matter (peat, humus) than other cacti.

Repotting: Repotting every 2-3 years. It will need a pot with sufficient depth to allow the root to expand. Use pot with good drainage.

Watering: Needs moderate to copious waterings in summer (it is more demanding than other cactus), but do not overwater, keep dry in winter at a minimum temperature of 5°C. Its roots are easily lost in pots that stay damp for any length of time. Keep dry with ample airflow in winter

Uses: It is an excellent plant for container growing. It look fine in a cold greenhouse and frame.

Exposition: Outside filtered sunlight or afternoon shade, but tolerate bright sun too, inside it needs bright light, and some direct sun. Subject to sunburn if exposed to direct sun for too long during the hottest hours in mid summer.