Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cactaceae

Genus:

Opuntia

Species:

Opuntia austrina

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Succulent

Height:

3-4 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

feb, mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug

Bloom Colors:

Yellow, Green

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Texas

Keystone Species Ranking

Bee Keystone:

★★★★★ Based on number of native bee species using this genus for pollen and nectar (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to sandy scrublands and pine flatwoods