Elephantear Pricklypear

Opuntia tuna

Also known as: Erect Pricklypear

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Cactaceae
Genus:
Opuntia
Species:
Opuntia tuna

Growth Characteristics

Height:
3-4 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug
Bloom Colors:
yellow

Native Range

United States: Florida, Navassa Island, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Virgin Islands

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, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to arid and semi-arid regions