Opuntia monacantha 'Maverick' (Maverick Prickly Pear) – Striking, Tall Prickly Pear

Opuntia monacantha ‘Maverick’, also known as the Maverick Prickly Pear or Joseph’s Coat, is a monstrous, variegated cactus prized for its unique, contorted growth and colorful pads. Its flattened pads display a stunning mix of green, white, yellow, and pink, especially on new growth, making it a one-of-a-kind statement plant. In spring and summer, it produces bright yellow flowers, followed by reddish-purple, edible fruits. Slow-growing yet dramatic, this cactus adds bold color and architectural interest to any succulent collection, container, or garden.

We recommend planting this in our Cactus/Succulent Soil.

Common Names: Maverick Prickly Pear, Joseph's Coat

Botanical Name: Opuntia monacantha 'Maverick'

Plant Care:

• Light: Full sun to bright, direct light

• Soil: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with mineral grit

• Water: Drought-tolerant; allow soil to dry completely between waterings

• Temperature: Hardy to 20°F (-6°C); protect from frost

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Habit: Shrub or tall, vertical cactus with irregular, contorted pads

• Mature Size: 1–6 feet tall (30 cm to 1.8 m)

⚠️ Handle with care: Pads have fine glochids that can irritate skin. Use gloves or tongs.

Perfect For:

• Cactus and succulent collectors

• Indoor containers or sunny patios

• Xeriscape and desert-style gardens

• Statement plants with unique variegation

• Fans of monstrous, slow-growing, rare cacti

Cold Weather Shipping:

Keep your plants cozy in transit! Add UniHeat® Heat Pack to protect cold-tender plants from frost damage. If a heat pack isn’t included and cold weather is expected, we may delay shipment to keep your plants safe. We’ll reach out via email if so. (Destination temperatures below 40°F will require a heat pack.)