Brittle Pricklypear

(Opuntia fragilis)

Brittle Pricklypear (Opuntia fragilis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Opuntia fragilis, commonly known as Brittle Pricklypear, is an evergreen succulent native to arid and semi-arid regions, including rocky outcrops, grasslands, and open woodlands in the Central and Western USA, as well as parts of Canada. It is a diminutive plant, typically not exceeding 10 cm (4 in) in height, with a spreading habit that can form mats on the ground. The Brittle Pricklypear is characterized by its segmented pads that are easily detached, hence the name "brittle." Its flowers, which bloom in late spring to early summer, are yellow to greenish-yellow and can be quite showy despite the plant’s small size. The seeds are large in comparison to the fruit size but are relatively few in number.

This plant is valued for its drought tolerance and unique appearance, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, xeriscaping, and as a ground cover in areas with dry conditions. It requires minimal maintenance once established. In cultivation, Brittle Pricklypear thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers soils with excellent drainage. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which is a common issue. It is also cold hardy and can survive in temperatures well below freezing, making it suitable for northern climates. While it is not typically grown for its culinary or medicinal properties, it is an important plant for native pollinators and wildlife.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 0.3-0.5 feet
  • Width: 0.6-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Sun
  • Water: Very Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Erosion Control, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Arid and semi-arid regions, rocky outcrops, grasslands, and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Brittle Cactus, Fragile Cactus, Little Prickly Pear, Jumping Cactus, Little Pricklypear, Brittle Opuntia, Brittle Prickly-Pear, Brittle Prickly-Pear Cactus, Fragile Prickly-Pear, Little Prickly-Pear

Scientific Names: , Opuntia fragilis, Cactus fragilis, Opuntia fragilis var. fragilis, Opuntia fragilis var. brachyarthra, Opuntia brachyarthra, Opuntia fragilis subsp. brachyarthra, Opuntia fragilis subsp. caespitosa, Opuntia fragilis var. parviconspicua, Opuntia fragilis f. brachyarthra

GBIF Accepted Name: Opuntia fragilis (Nutt.) Haw.