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Plains Pricklypear (Opuntia polyacantha)

Opuntia polyacantha, the Plains Pricklypear, is a low-growing cactus native to western North America, known for its flattened pads and vibrant yellow flowers.

Above information is sourced from Wikipedia

Sunlight

Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering.

Watering

Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.

Soil

Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix or sandy loam. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures during the growing season and can tolerate cooler temperatures in dormancy.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Feed sparingly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.

Care Requirements

Light

Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering.

At least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Water

Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.

Soil

Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus mix or sandy loam. Avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.

Temperature

Thrives in warm temperatures during the growing season and can tolerate cooler temperatures in dormancy.

Ideal: 18-27°C; Dormant: can withstand light frost.

Habitat

Outdoor

Fertilizer

Feed sparingly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted fertilizer.

Avoid fertilizing in winter.

Plant Overview

Plant Type

Succulent

Plant Category

Flowering, Ornamental

Plant Place Type

Ground, Garden, Pot

Plant Environment

Outdoor

Lifespan

Perennials

Plant Height

0.2-0.5 m

Spread

1-2 m

Growth Rate

Slow

Dormancy

Winter

Leaf Type

Modified into spines

Flower Size

5-7 cm

Optimal Sunlight Lux

70000

Image Gallery

Synonyms
Tunas polyacantha (Haw.) Nieuwl. & Lunell
Taxonomy
  • kingdomPlantae
  • divisionTracheophyta
  • classMagnoliopsida
  • orderCaryophyllales
  • familyCactaceae
  • genusOpuntia
  • speciesOpuntia polyacantha
Toxicity

Toxic for humans

No

Rating: 0/5

Toxic for pets

No

Rating: 0/5

Edible

No

Non-toxic to pets and humans. Spines can cause mechanical injury.

Additional Care Tips

FAQs