Buy Opuntia basilaris 'Sara's Compact'

Also Known As

Beaver Tail Cactus
Sara's Compact Beavertail Cactus

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

H: 12"-18"
W: 12"-18"

planting zones

5a-10b

2-4 inch bagged root ball | $18

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Opuntia basilaris 'Sara's Compact' plant details

Opuntia basilaris 'Sara's Compact' is an evergreen cactus / succulent with blue and green foliage. In spring and summer pink flowers emerge. 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 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 basilaris 'Sara's Compact'

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: cactaceae
Foliage: evergreen blue and green
Mature size: 12 IN - 18 IN - wide, 12 IN - 18 IN - tall
Flowers: pink blooms in spring and summer
Uses: container plant, desert garden, dwarf, rock garden, xeric, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia basilaris 'Sara's Compact'

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

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Nursery contributed plant descriptions

One of many fabulous beavertail cactus selections, this is a lovely semi-dwarf form, reaching an eventual 18” with soft, pinkish-gray pads covered in colorful orange-red glochids -- not to be licked! -- and deep rose flowers. This cultivar was selected by Sara McComb. Plant in full sun in mineral soil where drainage is sharp. Frost hardy to -20F, USDA zone 5.