Family: Cactaceae (kak-TAY-see-ee) (Info)
Genus: Opuntia (op-UN-shee-a) (Info)
Species: polyacantha (pol-lee-uh-KAN-tha) (Info)
Synonym:Opuntia polyacantha var. polyacantha
Synonym:Opuntia heacockiae
Synonym:Opuntia missouriensis
Synonym:Opuntia rutila
Synonym:Opuntia xanthostemma
Category:
Perennials
Shrubs
Cactus and Succulents
Height:
6-12 in. (15-30 cm)
Spacing:
12-15 in. (30-38 cm)
15-18 in. (38-45 cm)
18-24 in. (45-60 cm)
24-36 in. (60-90 cm)
36-48 in. (90-120 cm)
Sun Exposure:
Full Sun
Danger:
Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling
Bloom Color:
Red
Bright Yellow
Bloom Time:
Mid Spring
Late Spring/Early Summer
Foliage:
Deciduous
Succulent
Other details:
Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping
Average Water Needs; Water regularly; do not overwater
Soil pH requirements:
6.1 to 6.5 (mildly acidic)
6.6 to 7.5 (neutral)
7.6 to 7.8 (mildly alkaline)
Patent Information:
Non-patented
Propagation Methods:
From woody stem cuttings
Allow cut surface to callous over before planting
Seed Collecting:
Allow unblemished fruit to ripen; clean and dry seeds
Properly cleaned, seed can be successfully stored