Opuntia streptacantha

Opuntia streptacantha is an evergreen cactus / succulent or fruit / vegetable with green foliage. In spring and summer yellow flowers emerge followed by purple and red fruit. Features glaucous texture. Attracts bees and hummingbirds 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 heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Opuntia streptacantha

Plant type: cactus / succulent or fruit / vegetable

Plant family: cactaceae

Foliage: evergreen green

Mature size: 5 FT - 16 FT - wide, 5 FT - 16 FT - tall

Flowers: yellow blooms in spring and summer

Uses: container plant, desert garden, edible, houseplant, rock garden, xeric, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia streptacantha

USDA Zones: 9a - 12

Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun

Watering frequency: occasional - low

Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat and verticillium wilt

Soil needs: gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained