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Opuntia engelmannii var. lindheimeri

Cow Tongue Prickly Pear

Plant photo of: Opuntia engelmannii var. lindheimeri
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Information by: George Hull MSN        Photographer:

 

Description

The pads on this variety are elongated and resemble a tongue. More tolerant of moderate shade than many cacti, but provide good drainage. Old plants sprawl and become large. Beautiful yellow to orange flowers in the spring. Subject to cochineal scale infestations. Prevent by washing off frequently with strong jets of water.

 

Plant Type

Cactus

Height Range

3-6', 6-12'

Flower Color

Orange, Yellow

Flower Season

Spring, Summer

Leaf Color

Bark Color

n/a

Fruit Color

Red

Fruit Season

Summer

Sun

Full, Half

Water

Very Low, Low

Growth Rate

Fast

Soil Type

Sandy, Clay, Rocky

Soil Condition

Average, Poor, Well-drained

Soil pH

Neutral, Basic

Adverse Factors

Thorns/Spines

Design Styles

Spanish, Wild Garden

Accenting Features

Specimen, Unusual Shape

Seasonal Interest

Spring, Summer

Location Uses

Background, Parking Lot, Roadside, With Rocks

Special Uses

n/a

Attracts Wildlife

Birds, Wildlife

Water Saving Tip:

Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.