Opuntia basilaris var. brachyclada 'Mormon Rock'

Also Known As

Mormon Rock Beavertail Cactus

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

H: 6"-12"
W: 12"-36"

planting zones

5a-10b

Opuntia basilaris var. brachyclada 'Mormon Rock' plant details

Opuntia basilaris var. brachyclada 'Mormon Rock' is a cactus / succulent with blue foliage. In spring pink flowers emerge. Attracts hummingbirds. Grows well with sun and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in winter. Does well in gritty, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Opuntia basilaris var. brachyclada 'Mormon Rock'

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: cactaceae
Mature size: 12 IN - 36 IN - wide, 6 IN - 12 IN - tall
Flowers: pink blooms in spring
Uses: container plant, desert garden, rock garden, spiky, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia basilaris var. brachyclada 'Mormon Rock'

USDA Zones: 5a - 10b
Sun exposure: sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: verticillium wilt
Soil needs: gritty, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

A Cistus introduction from the vicinity of Mormon Rock in southern California. This tightly clumping small form of beavertail has conical blue pads somewhat more flattened than the typical subspecies indicating a possible hybrid. Whatever the botanical case, each pad is only about 3" wide with well-spaced, bright orange glochids giving the whole plant a very cheery appearance. Nice medium-to-cherry-pink flowers appears in mid spring. Not minding extra winter moisture, these are a bit easier to grow than other beavertails, enjoying full sun. Excellent pot or rock garden plant and frost hardy to -10F, USDA zone 5, probably zone 4.