Opuntia microdasys 'Albuquerque'

Also Known As

Opuntia microdasys [Albuquerque]
Albuquerque Prickly Pear Cactus

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

H: 18"-30"
W: 18"-36"

planting zones

7a-11

More Options

Opuntia microdasys 'Albuquerque' plant details

Opuntia microdasys 'Albuquerque' is an evergreen cactus / succulent with blue and green foliage. In spring yellow flowers emerge. Attracts bees 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 average, gritty, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Opuntia microdasys 'Albuquerque'

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: cactaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue and green
Mature size: 18 IN - 36 IN - wide, 18 IN - 30 IN - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring
Uses: container plant, desert garden, rock garden, spiky, xeric, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia microdasys 'Albuquerque'

USDA Zones: 7a - 11
Sun exposure: sun - mostly sun
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat and verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average, gritty, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Another of Sean’s favorite, early childhood succulents, one that still entrances him (until violently shaken) and can only be described as “cute” -- the opuntia that is -- with nearly perfectly round pads dressed in tiny clusters of pale glochids -- which, by the way, are not cute, as they get in ones clothing – and yellow flowers in summer. Though most often grown as a container plant, the species is hardy outdoors in USDA zone 8 or above if kept extremely dry in winter. This came from a decidedly zone 7 place, an old garden in Albuquerque, NM. Full sun or brightest windowsill for best appearance.