Photo of Opuntia fragilis [Whidbey Island] by plant lust

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Opuntia fragilis [Whidbey Island]

Also Known As

  • Brittle Prickly Pear
  • Little Prickly Pear

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

  • H: 2"-4"
  • W: 12"-18"

planting zones

  • 7a-10b

More Options

Opuntia fragilis [Whidbey Island] plant details

Opuntia fragilis [Whidbey Island] is an evergreen cactus / succulent with green foliage. In spring and summer yellow flowers emerge. Attracts bees and butterflies making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with sun - mostly sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in winter. Does well in gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Opuntia fragilis [Whidbey Island]

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: cactaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 12 IN - 18 IN - wide, 2 IN - 4 IN - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring and summer
Uses: container plant, desert garden, rock garden, xeric, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia fragilis [Whidbey Island]

USDA Zones: 7a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer, verticillium wilt
Soil needs: gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

This collection of O. fragilis comes from Whidbey Island, where it is now reduced to one very small population in the wild. Features and care as for the Sequim form of O. fragilis. Hardy to at least -20 °F.

Gardening facts about Opuntia fragilis [Whidbey Island] plant

How to Grow Opuntia fragilis [Whidbey Island]

  • Sun Exposure

    • sun - mostly sun
  • Water Needs

    • occasional - drought tolerant
  • Water Needs

    • dry in winter
  • Soil Needs

    • lean
    • well-drained
    • rocky
    • gritty
  • Special Situation

    • verticillium wilt resistant

Features

  • Foliage Color

    • green
  • Flower Color

    • yellow
  • Wildlife

    • bees
    • butterflies
    • deer resistant
  • Flower Season

    • summer
    • spring
  • Foliage Season

    • evergreen
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