Opuntia macrocentra
Purple Prickly Pear
Description
Purple Prickly Pear is a cactus that has thick, fleshy, lavender violet colored pads instead of leaves. Watch out for spines. Red and yellow flowers bloom in spring and summer, followed by reddish purple fruit. This plant reaches 3' tall and wide. This p
Plant Type
Cactus
Height Range
1-3', 3-6'
Flower Color
Red, Yellow
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Purple
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Slow
Soil Type
Sandy
Soil Condition
Poor
Soil pH
Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Ranch, Spanish
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Shrub Border, Foundation, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Even during our hottest months we don't need to water daily.
Give your plants a chance to breathe.
Water late at night or in the early morning hours to avoid losses to wind and evaporation.