Opuntia fragilis th.073.11 [Monticello, UT]
This form of Opuntia fragilis can blush with purple, especially in winter, contrasting with the orange and white spines.
Fragile prickly pear (Opuntia fragilis) is widespread across western North America and occurs in all Canadian provinces from Ontario west plus the western half of the US. It has small pads that can be cylindrical (usually in the BC interior) or larger and somewhat flattened (BC coastal forms). The pads can be upright or prostrate. In summer they produce bright yellow cactus flowers. This is the most northerly of all cactus species occurring only 8 degrees of latitude south of the Arctic Circle in Alberta. Plant in full sun in sharply draining soil. This form collected by Tim Hanis has pads that can blush with purple, especially in winter, contrasting beautifully with the distinctive orange and white spines. Hardy to at least zone 4, perhaps 3.
Common Name: Brittle Prickly Pear
Family: Cactaceae (The Cactus Family)
Zone Hardiness: 3-9
Light: Full Sun
Height: 4-8"
Width: 8-12"
Primary Bloom Colour: Yellow
Secondary Bloom Colour:
Class: Evergreen
Type: Perennial
Bloom Time: Summer
Soil Moisture: Dry, Drought Tolerant
Stem Colour:
Fragrance: No
Berries:
Benefits: Bees
Deer Resistant: Yes
BC Native: Yes
Native Habitat: Dry prairies, sandhills and rocks.
Award:
Geographical Origin:
