Opuntia santa-rita 'Tubaca'
Purple Prickly Pear
Description
This cactus grows at low elevations in southern Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Mexico. Rounded pads are a soft blue-grey color in the warm months, deepening to a rich purple in the winter. Clusters of glochids dot the pads, and a handful of long spines line the upper edges. Yellow blossoms in the spring are followed by purple fleshy fruits. Plant in full sun and provide good drainage.
Plant Type
Cactus
Height Range
3-6'
Width Range
3-6'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Purple
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Purple, Red
Fruit Season
Summer, Fall
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Rocky
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Ranch, Spanish
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Swimming Pool, Walls / Fences, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Irrigate in the early morning to minimize evaporation.