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Opuntia fragilis [Dwarf Golden]

Also Known As

Dwarf Brittle Prickly Pear

Plant type

cactus / succulent, groundcover

size

H: 2"-5"
W: 12"-24"

planting zones

4a-12

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Opuntia fragilis [Dwarf Golden] plant details

Opuntia fragilis [Dwarf Golden] is an evergreen groundcover cactus / succulent with green foliage. In spring yellow flowers emerge. 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 fragilis [Dwarf Golden]

Plant type: groundcover cactus / succulent
Plant family: cactaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 12 IN - 24 IN - wide, 2 IN - 5 IN - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring
Uses: container plant, desert garden, mat-forming, rock garden, spiky, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia fragilis [Dwarf Golden]

USDA Zones: 4a - 12
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

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Shared with us by friend Panayoti Kelaidis of Denver, this small mat former, quickly to about 3" high x 18" wide and eventually larger, has 1/2" pads with golden glochids and spines. Shy to flower. Very attractive in troughs, pots, or rock gardens, anywhere a low sun angle can can make the golden spines glow. Cactus conditions required -- sun, lean and well-drained soil, and little summer water. Frost hardy to -30F, USDA zone 4.