Plains Pricklypear

(Opuntia polyacantha)

Plains Pricklypear (Opuntia polyacantha)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Opuntia polyacantha, commonly known as Plains Pricklypear, is an evergreen succulent native to a variety of habitats including semi-arid plains, grasslands, and rocky outcrops in the Western United States and Mexico. It is a low-growing cactus that typically reaches 10–30 centimeters (4–12 inches) in height and forms extensive mats up to 2–3 meters (6.5–9.8 feet) wide. The succulent pads are oval to circular, measuring up to 27 by 18 cm (10.6 by 7.1 inches), and are covered with clusters of spines. The flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, emerge from the spine-covered stem segments and are quite showy. They can be yellow, magenta, or red, often changing to pink or orange as they age. After flowering, the plant produces cylindrical, brownish, dry, and spiny fruits. Plains Pricklypear reproduces by seeds, layering, and resprouting from detached segments.

This cactus is valued for its drought tolerance and unique appearance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and rock gardens. It is also used in native plant gardens and as ground cover in areas with poor soil. Plains Pricklypear requires full sun exposure and thrives in well-drained soils with low to very low water requirements. While it is generally low-maintenance, gardeners should be cautious of its sharp spines when handling. It is not known to have aggressive roots or significant disease problems, but overwatering can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent, Shrub
  • Height: 0.3-1 feet
  • Width: 6.5-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Yellow, Orange, Pink
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, 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, Salt Tolerant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Semi-arid plains, grasslands, and rocky outcrops in the Western United States and Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Cliff Prickly-Pear, Hairy Prickly-Pear, Panhandle Pricklypear, Juniper Prickly-Pear, Plains Prickly-Pear, Starvation Prickly-Pear, Porcupine Prickly-Pear, Hedgehog Prickly-Pear, Nichol’s Prickly-Pear, Red-Spine Prickly-Pear

Scientific Names: , Opuntia polyacantha, Opuntia trichophora, Opuntia rhodantha, Opuntia polyacantha var. trichophora, Opuntia erinacea var. utahensis, Opuntia polyacantha var. rufispina, Opuntia erinacea var. ursina, Opuntia missouriensis, Opuntia ursina

GBIF Accepted Name: Opuntia polyacantha Haw.