Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cactaceae

Genus:

Opuntia

Species:

Opuntia fragilis

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Succulent

Height:

6 in - 1 ft

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

may, jun

Bloom Colors:

Yellow

Food Forest:

Plant contains edible parts

Ground Cover:

Yes

Keystone Species Ranking

Bee Keystone:

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

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, rocky, well-drained soil

pH:

6.0 - 8.0 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

thrives in nutrient-poor conditions