Opuntia gilvescens

Also Known As

Western Prickly Pear Cactus

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

H: 3'-4'
W: 3'-4'

planting zones

5a-10b

Opuntia gilvescens plant details

Opuntia gilvescens is an evergreen cactus / succulent with green foliage. In spring and summer yellow flowers emerge followed by 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 gilvescens

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: cactaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 3 FT - 4 FT - wide, 3 FT - 4 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring and summer
Uses: container plant, desert garden, rock garden, spiky, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia gilvescens

USDA Zones: 5a - 10b
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

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A very tidy, upright prickly pear from the Oklahoma panhandle reaching 3 ft or more with nearly spherical pads of light blue adorned with short golden spines and yellow flowers, sometimes rust-centered, followed by fleshy red fruit. Bright sun is best with lean soil and at least decent drainage. Frost hardy to USDA zone 5 or possibly lower.