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Opuntia santa-rita

Purple prickly pear

Plant photo of: Opuntia santa-rita
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Information by: Mary Irish        Photographer: Mountain States Nursery

 

Description

Shrublike cactus grows at a moderate rate to 4' x 5'. Pads are green-purple turning more purple with cold or dry weather. Small tan spines line the pads. Striking yellow flowers appear on the tips of pads in the spring. Accepts reflected heat. Native to the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts.

 

Plant Type

Cactus

Height Range

3-6'

Flower Color

Yellow

Flower Season

Spring

Leaf Color

Green, Purple

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

n/a

Fruit Season

n/a

Sun

Water

Very Low

Growth Rate

Moderate

Soil Type

Clay

Soil Condition

Average, Well-drained

Soil pH

Basic

Adverse Factors

Thorns/Spines

Design Styles

Ranch, Spanish, Tropical, Wild Garden

Accenting Features

Showy Flowers, Specimen, Unusual Foliage

Seasonal Interest

Spring

Location Uses

Entry, Foundation, Patio, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks

Special Uses

n/a

Attracts Wildlife

Birds

Water Saving Tip:

Water between sunset and sunrise when temperatures and wind are the lowest.