Opuntia strigil

Also Known As

Marblefruit Prickly Pear

Plant type

cactus / succulent

size

H: 3'-4'
W: 4'-6'

planting zones

8a-12

Opuntia strigil plant details

Opuntia strigil is an evergreen cactus / succulent with green foliage. In spring and summer yellow flowers emerge followed by red fruit. 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 gritty, lean, rocky and well-drained soil. A good option if you're seeking something heat tolerant and verticillium wilt resistant.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Opuntia strigil

Plant type: cactus / succulent
Plant family: cactaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 4 FT - 6 FT - wide, 3 FT - 4 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring and summer
Uses: container plant, desert garden, rock garden, spiky, xeric

GROWING CONDITIONS for Opuntia strigil

USDA Zones: 8a - 12
Sun exposure: sun - mostly 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

Unusual, south Texas native, prickly pear, to 3-4' or so,with round, 6" pads, the sharp spines chocolate-brown and evenly spaced. Creamy yellow flowers appear in May or June and produce small fruit that blushes red. Does well in full sun to bright shade, lean and well-drained soil, and little or no summer water. Frost hardy to 10-15 °F, USDA Zone 8, more reliable if dry in winter or with excellent drainage. A very good container plant for bright light.