Prickly pear (Opuntia) Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses

How to Water Prickly pear?

Distribution of Prickly pear

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Distribution Map of Prickly pear

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

How to Grow and Care for Prickly pear

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Prickly pear demand straightforward yet conscientious care. Basic needs include full sun exposure, well-draining soil, and sparse watering to mimic their arid native habitats. Moderate to high temperatures are preferred. Common challenges include overwatering leading to root rot, infestations from pests like mealybugs and scale insects, and sensitivity to cold, especially in younger plants. Seasonally, less watering is needed during cooler months, and watchful pest management is crucial during growth periods in warmer months.

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Prickly pear?

How to Propagate Prickly pear?

How to Plant Prickly pear?

More Info About Caring for Prickly pear

Exploring the Prickly pear Plants

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8 most common species：

Angel's-wings (*Opuntia microdasys*) is a flowering cactus species native to Mexico. Angel's-wings is closely related to Opuntia RFID, which can be differentiated from Opuntia microdasys by its reddish color. Some scientists consider the two cacti to be the same species. This species is also known as the bunny ears cactus, the bunny cactus, or the polka-dot cactus. It is sometimes planted as an ornamental on borders and in gardens.

Drooping prickly pear (*Opuntia monacantha*) is a fast-growing succulent shrub that will grow up to 6 m tall. It blooms in summer with yellowish to deep orange flowers that are large, up to 8 cm long, and 10 cm wide. The large fruit is reddish-purple and ripens in the fall. It grows best in full sun and sandy, well-drained soil.

Eastern prickly pear

Eastern prickly pear (Opuntia humifusa) is a cactus native to eastern North America that grows low to the ground. Eastern prickly pear requires a hot, dry climate and full sunlight for optimal growth, as it cannot grow in shade. In the wild, this species grows in sandy, rocky, and coastal scrub habitats.

Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) is a flowering cactus native to Mexico. Prickly pear is a widely domesticated species grown for agricultural purposes in arid climates throughout the world. This species is edible and planted widely as a fruit and vegetable crop. Prickly pear is commercially valued as food, animal fodder, an adobe ingredient, and is also planted to control soil erosion.

Brittle prickly pear

Brittle prickly pear (Opuntia fragilis) is a small cactus species also known as little prickly pear. Brittle prickly pear is a low-growing, clumping cactus with yellow-green colored flowers. New pads grow out of the top of the cactus, causing it to bend over. Where the new pads touch the soil, roots form and grow into new cacti. Pads that break off can form entirely new colonies. This little cactus may not flower indoors.

Erect Prickly Pear

Erect Prickly Pear is an upright-growing succulent shrub native to the Caribbean. The flowers are vibrant yellow, but sometimes have rosy or crimson-colored patterns on the exterior petals. This variety of cactus has leaf-like turquoise stems called cladodes. It is hairless but covered with small prickly bristles. The unripe fruits are green, but turn to plum as they ripen.

Prickly pear is often cultivated as a hedge or an ornamental plant. It attracts butterflies and hummingbirds and thrives in semi-arid areas and savannas. The flowers range from reddish to yellow, and it bears fleshy fruits. The seed may remain viable in the soil for at least 19 months.

Plains Pricklypear

Plains Pricklypear (Opuntia polyacantha) is a fruit-bearing cactus species native to North America. Plains Pricklypear grows in sagebrush, savannas, and prairies. The fruit is high in fiber, antioxidants and carotenoids. Prairie dogs and pronghorn antelope feed on it.

All Species of Prickly pear

Coastal Pricklypear (Opuntia littoralis) originates in California and Baja California. It grows in chaparrals and sage scrublands where it can form large clusters that make great hiding places for small animals. The coastal Pricklypear produces edible fruit.

Long-Spined Purplish Prickly Pear

Long-Spined Purplish Prickly Pear

Long-Spined Purplish Prickly Pear is a slow-growing, shrub-shaped cactus that is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. Its most notable feature is the purple hue to its prickly pads. It also produces large yellow or red blooms and dark red fruit.

Desert Christmas Cactus

Desert Christmas Cactus (Opuntia leptocaulis) is a cactus that grows wild in the chaparral scrublands and arid deserts of the American Southwest and Mexico. The desert Christmas Cactus produces red berries in winter, which have been reported to cause intoxication if ingested. Indigenous people would mix these berries in a drink to induce altered states of consciousness.

Tulip prickly pear

Opuntia phaeacantha is the common Opuntia species in sandy and rocky soils across the southwest United States. Tulip prickly pear is a widespread cactus that often hybridizes with several other Opuntia species, producing both named and unnamed hybrids, making the identification of Opuntia phaeacantha slightly difficult.

Beavertail cactus

Beavertail cactus (Opuntia basilaris) is a low-spreading cactus that with gray-blue, wide fleshy pads that look like a beaver’s tail. Vibrant rose-purple flowers bloom from spring to summer, followed by prickly pear fruit, which attracts birds. Grows in full sun and well-drained soil.

Erect prickly pear

Erect prickly pear

Erect prickly pear is a cactus shrub that has spread in many areas and has become invasive in Australia, Asia, and Africa. This cactus grows best in desert and dry environments. Its attractive yellow flowers and stems are pleasant ornamentals. Erect prickly pear produces edible and juicy fruits with a tang of sweetness and acidity.

Santa rita prickly pear

Santa rita prickly pear

Santa rita prickly pear is a beautiful cactus that turns a vibrant purple color during wintertime. Native to the southwestern United States and Mexico, Santa Rita prickly pear is named after the Santa Rita mountains in Arizona. Be careful around this plant, though; its spines may be small, but they can be quite painful.

Arborescent pricklypear

Arborescent pricklypear

Arborescent pricklypear is a species of cactus once found only in the mountains of Mexico. It is now considered an invasive species in southern North America. It produces yellow flowers which are followed by yellow fruits. This species can grow up to 3.5 m tall.

Pycnantha cactus

Pycnantha cactus (Opuntia pycnantha) is a drought-tolerant, deciduous succulent species. Pycnantha cactus is native to Baja California Sur and also grows in Arizona. This species tolerates deer and rabbits, and is valued as an ornamental garden plant. Pycnantha cactus spines are very sharp so it should be handled with caution.

Nopal tapon

Nopal tapon

Nopal tapon is a prickly pear known and loved for its fast growth rate. It suits desert, Mediterranean, cactus, and xeriscape gardens, but they need to be large, as this cactus requires a good amount of space. Nopal tapon should be grown indoors in colder climates. The vibrant fruit nopal tapon produces is eaten by various animals.

Velvet tree-pear

The scientific name of the Opuntia tomentosa comes from the Latin word "tomento," which means "extremely fine hairs," since instead of spines like most cacti, velvet tree-pear has green segments that feel velvety due to the very fine hairs that cover it. This plant is grown in Central America to collect the insect cochineal, which is used to make carmine dye.

Twist spine prickly pear

Opuntia macrorhiza is commonly called twist spine prickly pear. It is found in the Great Plains and many areas in the United States and northern Mexico. This cactus is cultivated as an ornamental plant.

Dollarjoint pricklypear

Dollarjoint pricklypear, or Opuntia chlorotica, is a species of cactus native to the United States. Like many cacti, it is drought-tolerant and covered in sharp spines. It grows in an upright, bush habit.

Chaparral pricklypear

Chaparral pricklypear (Opuntia oricola) is a species of pricklypear cactus indigenous to sage scrub and chaparral habitats along the southwestern coast of North America, in California and Baja California. The tree-like, bushy succulent blooms yellow-to-orange flowers in spring, followed by pear-shaped fruit called a "tuna" that's juicy, sweet, and edible.

eastern prickly pear

eastern prickly pear

Eastern prickly pear is a captivating plant with unique characteristics. This species, native to North America, thrives in various ecosystems due to its adaptability. Its fleshy stems, bearing clusters of vibrant yellow flowers, attract various insects and birds, making it an ideal addition to any garden. Furthermore, eastern prickly pear is sometimes utilized for its economic value in the culinary world, as its young pads can be cooked and enjoyed as a vegetable. Its interesting name origin adds to its appeal, making it a must-have for plant enthusiasts. Eastern prickly pear truly stands out with its unusual beauty and versatility.

Hairspine pricklypear

Hairspine pricklypear

Hairspine pricklypear is a resilient cactus native to arid landscapes, characterized by its clumping growth pattern and striking array of needle-like spines. The spiky armor, in shades of yellow, red, or brown, serves as a formidable deterrent against thirsty predators. Vibrant yellow flowers crown this hardy plant, signaling its readiness to withstand the harsh conditions of its natural habitat.

Angel's-wings 'Albata'

Angel's-wings 'Albata'

Angel's-wings 'Albata' is a charming addition to any garden due to its unique appearance. The bright white spots that cover its flat, oval-shaped pads truly resemble the wings of an angel. However, beware of this plant's spine-covered pads and glochidia, which can cause skin irritation and severe allergic reactions.

Beavertail cactus 'Baby Rita'

Beavertail cactus 'Baby Rita'

The attractive, but diminutive prickly pear, beavertail cactus 'Baby Rita' is smaller than its parent plant, growing to a maximum height of 30 cm. This small stature influenced its name. Developed by Waterwise Botanicals, this cultivar also differs in its ability to thrive in cooler maritime climates. Gardeners prize this cactus for its beautiful reddish-pink flowers.

Variegated Joseph's Coat

Variegated Joseph's Coat

Variegated Joseph's Coat is a fast-growing variety of prickly-pear cactus. Its common name "Joseph's coat" comes from its distinctive droopy structure. This plant should be handled with tongs, as the fine, bristled barbs can pierce leather gloves. This cactus is cultivated in gardens in hot, dry areas, but can also be grown indoors.

Opuntia columbiana

Opuntia columbiana is a resilient cactus native to arid regions, bearing distinctive flat, fleshy pads that serve as both leaves and stems. These pads are dotted with clusters of spines, which protect the plant from herbivores and aid in water conservation. Vivid yellow flowers bloom seasonally, further adapted to attract pollinators in sparse environments. Its ability to store water allows it to thrive in drought-prone areas.

Great pricklypear

Great pricklypear

Great pricklypear is a robust cactus with a sprawling habit, characterized by its paddle-shaped green segments. Its large, showy flowers bloom a vivid yellow, fading to orange or red, and are followed by purplish fruits. This variety thrives in arid desert climates, where its spiky defenses and succulent tissues conserve precious water and deter herbivores.

Opuntia decumbens

Opuntia decumbens is a terrestrial cactus with a sprawling, shrub-like growth habit, often fanning out close to the ground. Its segmented, flat, green pads are dotted with clusters of spines, offering both water storage and protection. This succulent thrives in arid environments, its fleshy pads adapting well to store moisture and endure intense sunlight.

Opuntia pottsii

Opuntia pottsii is a hardy cactus that thrives in arid environments, showcasing a typical prickly exterior with clustered, spiny pads. Its capacity to store water and its formidable spines exhibit adaptations for survival in harsh, dry climates. Bright yellow flowers bloom from the plant, providing a striking contrast to its green pads. Opuntia pottsii's robust nature allows it to contribute to its ecosystem, offering both sustenance and shelter to desert wildlife.

Violet prickly pear

Violet prickly pear

Violet prickly pear is a vibrant cactus known for its purple-tinted, fleshy pads that grow in a clumping manner. This drought-tolerant species features large, bright yellow flowers that contrast with its unusual pad coloration, adapting to attract pollinators in arid environments. The violet hue intensifies with increased sunlight exposure, showcasing a brilliant survival adaptation to the intense desert sun.

Chisos mountain pricklypear

Chisos mountain pricklypear

Chisos mountain pricklypear is a resilient, prickly cactus native to desert regions, characterized by its flattened, paddle-like stems. These green segments are dotted with clusters of spines, providing chisos mountain pricklypear with defense and reducing water loss. It blooms with colorful, cup-shaped flowers and produces edible, spiny fruits that contribute to its survival in arid conditions. Chisos mountain pricklypear's robust root system anchors it firmly to rocky soils, adapting to its harsh environment.

Texas pricklypear

Texas pricklypear

Texas pricklypear is a succulent cactus with a segmented, paddle-shaped structure. It boasts spiny pads that can vary in color from blue-green to greenish-yellow and flourish with sunny yellow flowers. Adapted to arid climates, this variety thrives under the harsh sun, its fleshy pads storing water to endure prolonged dry spells.

Opuntia wilcoxii

Opuntia wilcoxii is a resilient cactus characterized by segmented, flat, fleshy pads that are covered with clusters of fine spines, known as glochids. These can detach easily when touched, offering a unique defense mechanism. The plant thrives in arid environments, bearing vibrant yellow flowers that later yield purple fruits. Adapted to conserve water, opuntia wilcoxii's broad pads help minimize water loss while storing vital reserves to survive long periods of drought.

Golden prickly pear

Golden prickly pear

Boasting a resilient demeanor, golden prickly pear thrives in arid climates through its distinctive, paddle-like stems, known for their green to blue-green hue. This cactus family member punctuates the landscape with vibrant yellow blossoms that contrast its sharp spines, signaling a survival adaptation to deter predators while inviting pollinators to sustain its existence.

Opuntia soederstromiana

Opuntia soederstromiana is a distinctive cactus with paddle-shaped green segments and spiny edges. These segments are easily detachable as a survival strategy in its arid habitat, enabling propagation through fragment dispersal. The cactus blooms with yellow flowers that evolve into juicy red fruits, providing nourishment for local wildlife.

Opuntia bravoana

Opuntia bravoana is a species of cactus characterized by its flat, paddle-shaped stem segments with small, scattered spines called glochids. These segments can detach easily for propagation. Bright yellow flowers bloom under full sun exposure, typically in arid or desert climates. Opuntia bravoana has adapted to store water within its fleshy pads to survive prolonged droughts.

Cactus apple

Cactus apple

Cactus apple is a cactus with an elongated, tongue-shaped appearance, exhibiting flat, green pads that are often adorned with clusters of glochids and occasional spines. This distinct variant thrives in arid environments where its fleshy pads store water, allowing it to endure prolonged droughts. Vibrant yellow flowers bloom under full sun, attracting pollinators and adding to its allure.

More Popular Genus

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Dracaena

Fig trees

Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.

Brambles

Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.

Maples

Prunus

Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.

Nightshades

Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.

Roses

Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.

Oaks

Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.

Prickly pear

Opuntia

Also known as: tuna, paddle

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Succulent

Key Facts About Prickly pear

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Attributes of Prickly pear

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

30 cm

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Leaf type

Semi-evergreen

Ideal Temperature

20 - 41 ℃

Scientific Classification of Prickly pear

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Pinks, cacti, and allies

Family

Cactuses

Genus

How to Water Prickly pear?

Distribution of Prickly pear

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Distribution Map of Prickly pear

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Potentially invasive

Exotic

No species reported

How to Grow and Care for Prickly pear

Feedback

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Prickly pear?

How to Propagate Prickly pear?

How to Plant Prickly pear?

More Info About Caring for Prickly pear

Exploring the Prickly pear Plants

Feedback

8 most common species：

Show More Species

All Species of Prickly pear