Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Cactaceae

Genus:

Opuntia

Species:

Opuntia rufida

USDA Symbol:

OPRU3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Succulent

Height:

60 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun,Part Shade

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

apr,may,jun

Bloom Colors:

yellow, orange, red

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, bees, small mammals

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

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 regions, prefers desert-like conditions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Warm stratification required — 30–60 days

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from warm stratification; sow in well-drained soil mix.