CACTUS PHAEACANTHA

Latin Name: Opuntia phaeacantha

Description: Commonly referred to as the Prickly Pear Cactus, this hardy cactus gets its name from its large, flat, rounded pads and fruit, each pad being protected by clusters of spines. The spines are brown, reddish-brown, yellowish, or gray, and often over 3 cm in length. At the base of the spine cluster is a round tuft of easily detached yellowish to reddish or brown bristles called Glochids, which are also present on the fruit. The flowers are bright yellow with a pale green, orange, or red center. In some regions, plants may produce flowers of other colors such as orange, pink, or magenta. The edible fruits are usually red or purple with a pink flesh, typically abundant in seeds. The fruit has a mild watermelon or pear flavor. This unique specimen makes an excellent addition to rock gardens, sunny borders, or used in mass plantings.

Zone: 5
Height: 60cm
Spread: 90cm
Shape: Mounding
Sun or Shade: Full Sun
Foliage: Large, prickly, flat, rounded cactus pads
Flower type: Large bright yellow flowers that are 2 to 3 inches in diameter and sometimes have a red center