Opuntia santa rita
Purple prickly pear
Description
Shrublike cactus grows at a moderate rate to 4' x 5'. Pads are green-purple turning more purple with cold or dry weather. Small tan spines line the pads. Striking yellow flowers appear on the tips of pads in the spring. Accepts reflected heat. Native to the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts.
Plant Type
Cactus
Height Range
3-6'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Green, Purple
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full
Water
Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Clay
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained
Soil pH
Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Ranch, Spanish, Tropical, Wild Garden
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Specimen, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Spring
Location Uses
Entry, Foundation, Patio, Raised Planter, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
n/a
Attracts Wildlife
Birds
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a 2" layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost, or aged sawdust.
Inorganic mulches such as gravel are also acceptable.