Tulip Pricklypear
Opuntia phaeacantha
Also known as: Chihuahua Pricklypear
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Cactaceae
- Genus:
- Opuntia
- Species:
- Opuntia phaeacantha
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Succulent
- Height:
- 8-12 ft
- Light Requirements:
- Part Shade
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- apr, may, jun, jul
- Bloom Colors:
- Red, Orange, Yellow
- Food Forest:
- Plant contains edible parts
- Evergreen Shrub:
- Yes
Native Range
United States: Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, 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
Olycella junctolineella
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:
- thrives in arid desert conditions