Opuntia phaeacantha

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Sprawling Prickly Pear

 
Plant photo of: Opuntia phaeacantha
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Information by:         Photographer: Olin Miller

 

Description

This attractive cactus grows slowly to 3' x 3'. It has sage-green pads and yellow-orange flowers that bloom in summer. It is extremely drought tolerant. Accepts full sun to partial shade. Needs good drainage.

 

  • Anatomy

  • Sun/Water

  • Design

Plant Type

Shrub, Succulent, Cactus

 

Height Range

3-6'

 

Flower Color

Yellow

 

Flower Season

Spring

 

Leaf Color

Green

 

Bark Color

n/a

 

Fruit Color

n/a

 

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Full, Half

 

Water

Very Low, Low

 

Growth Rate

Slow

 

Soil Type

Sandy, Rocky

 

Soil Condition

Well-drained

 

Soil pH

Neutral

 

Adverse Factors

Thorns/Spines

Design Styles

Spanish

 

Accenting Features

Specimen, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape

 

Seasonal Interest

Spring

 

Location Uses

Foundation, With Rocks

 

Special Uses

n/a

 

Attracts Wildlife

Birds

Water Saving Tip:

As the weather gets hotter avoid the temptation to increase run times.

Instead, schedule more start times with one to two hours in between to allow the water from the previous session to soak in before watering again.