prickly pear
Opuntia ficus-indica
USDA zones8 to 12
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterNeeds dry soil
Size10 to 15 feet tall5 to 10 feet wide
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) is a succulent for borders, hedges, and xeriscape gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 8, or down to 10°F (-12°C). This plant likes full sun and dry, sandy or loamy soil. It grows tall and wide, so give it room. Birds visit the plant. It sits low on the menu for deer and rabbits.
Pairs well with White sage, Matilija poppy, and Shenandoah switchgrass.