Water
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of death for Plains Pricklypear. Water sparingly in winter, as the plant enters dormancy.
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Cliff Prickly-Pear · Grizzly-Bear Prickly Pear · Grizzly-Bear Prickly-Pear
Plains Pricklypear (Opuntia polyacantha) is a low-growing, mat-forming cactus native to western North America, featuring vibrant yellow flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Drought Tolerant
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Sandy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Adaptable
50% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, but prefers warmth during the growing season.
Low Feed
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
Non-toxic to pets and humans. Spines can cause mechanical injury.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of death for Plains Pricklypear. Water sparingly in winter, as the plant enters dormancy.
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to remove damaged or diseased pads, or to control size and shape. Use clean, sharp tools. Securing the pads with tongs or thick gloves is recommended due to the spines. Pruning is best done in spring.
Easily propagated from pad cuttings. Allow cuttings to callus over for a few days to a week before planting in well-draining soil. Water lightly after planting and wait for roots to form before resuming regular watering.
Repot only when the plant is severely root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Use a cactus or succulent mix with excellent drainage. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Plains Pricklypear (Opuntia polyacantha)
Where Plains Pricklypear (Opuntia polyacantha) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Opuntia |
| Species | Opuntia polyacantha |
Similar in genus Opuntia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
