Opuntia macrocentra 'Backlash'

Also Known As

Backlash Prickly Pear

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

H: 2'-4'
W: 2'-6'

planting zones

6a-10b

More Options

Opuntia macrocentra 'Backlash' plant details

Opuntia macrocentra 'Backlash' is an evergreen cactus / succulent with blue and purple foliage. In spring flowers emerge. Features glaucous texture. Attracts bees and hummingbirds making it an excellent addition to pollinator gardens. Grows well with 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 macrocentra 'Backlash'

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: cactaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue and purple
Mature size: 2 FT - 6 FT - wide, 2 FT - 4 FT - tall
Uses: container plant, desert garden, rock garden, spiky, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia macrocentra 'Backlash'

USDA Zones: 6a - 10b
Sun exposure: 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 most beautiful prickly pear has bluish pads tinted pink in winter -- each pad at least 6" wide and topped with dark "eyelash" spines -- and yellow, orange-centered flower in mid to late spring. Best with sun and a dryish root run. Frost hardy to -10F, USDA zone 6. Fab container plant.