Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cactaceae

Genus:

Opuntia

Species:

Opuntia basilaris

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub , Tree

Height:

1-2 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

feb, mar, apr, may, jun

Bloom Colors:

Red, Pink, Purple

Food Forest:

Plant contains edible parts

Evergreen Shrub:

Yes

Native Range

United States: Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah

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 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to arid desert regions

Germination Information