Opuntia ellisiana
Tiger Tongue
Description
This low spreading cactus grows at a moderate rate to 4' tall and 6' wide. Spineless small pads have tiny glochids so handle pads with gloves. Beautful yellow flowers appear in the spring so put this cactus in a place of prominence for all to see. Tiger Tongue accepts reflected sun. Irrigate every 3-4 weeks after this cactus is established. Red berries follow spring flowers.
Plant Type
Succulent, Cactus
Height Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Light Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Red
Fruit Season
Summer
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish, Wild Garden
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Spring
Location Uses
Patio, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Mass Planting
Attracts Wildlife
Birds
Water Saving Tip:
Different areas of your landscape have different water requirements.
Shrubs need much less water than lawns and drip systems should never be scheduled on the same program with lawns.
Establish separate watering schedules for those areas.