prickly-pear
Opuntia humifusa
USDA zones4 to 9
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterNeeds dry soil
Size6 to 12 inches tall12 to 18 inches wide
- Habit
- Cactus/succulent
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn, winter
- Bloom color
- Yellow (sometimes with reddish eye)
- Soil types
- Sand, loam
- Soil pH
- Acid, alkaline, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Prickly-pear (Opuntia humifusa) is a succulent for xeriscape, naturalized areas, and low maintenance gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 4, or down to -30°F (-34°C). This plant likes full sun and dry, sandy or loamy soil. Deer and rabbits tend to pass it by. Large, waxy yellow flowers often have reddish centers and open along the upper edges of the pads. Small, hair-like spines cover the pads and fruits, so wear thick gloves when you handle it.
Pairs well with Blue grama, Prairie dropseed, Magnus coneflower, and Elfin mother of thyme.
Native range
Eastern and central United States.