Opuntia robusta

Also Known As

Dinner Plate Cactus
Giant Prickly Pear Cactus
Wheel Cactus

Plant type

shrub, cactus / succulent

size

H: 3'-12'
W: 3'-20'

planting zones

8b-11

More Options

Opuntia robusta plant details

Opuntia robusta is an evergreen cactus / succulent or shrub with blue foliage. In spring and summer yellow flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Features glaucous texture. Attracts hummingbirds. Grows well with sun - bright shade and occasional - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Prefers to be dry in winter. Does well in average, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Opuntia robusta

Plant type: cactus / succulent or shrub
Plant family: cactaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue
Mature size: 3 FT - 20 FT - wide, 3 FT - 12 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring and summer
Uses: container plant, desert garden, rock garden, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia robusta

USDA Zones: 8b - 11
Sun exposure: sun - bright shade
Watering frequency: occasional - low
Resistant to: deer and rabbit, heat and verticillium wilt
Soil needs: average, gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Full Sun. Outdoor. Yellow.

By: Moon - Sun Cactus & Koi Gardens

The mother of all prickly pears! The gigantic, round, blue pads are truly larger than life, reaching as much as 20” across, and quite thick. The white spines are not terribly conspicuous, but huge yellow flowers and red fruits add to the impressiveness of this massive cactus. Not for small gardens, it may eventually reach 20' across and 6' tall or more! From relatively moist areas of Mexico, it will tolerate rain pretty well provided good drainage. It has been successful in Scappoose, Oregon, and should be hardy to about 10-15 °F.