Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cactaceae

Genus:

Opuntia

Species:

Opuntia fragilis

USDA Symbol:

OPFR

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Succulent

Height:

15 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jun,jul

Bloom Colors:

yellow

Food Forest:

Contains edible parts

Ground Cover:

Yes

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Pollen Specialist Bee Keystone:

★☆☆☆☆ Native pollen specialist bee species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

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

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–60 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 4-8 weeks; germination occurs at 20-25°C.

Where to Buy

Nationwide Seller

• Prairie Moon Nursery (nursery and seeds)
• Native Plants Nursery (nursery)
• Planet Desert (nursery)