Opuntia utahensis (Charles B.)
Opuntia utahensis is known as the grizzlybear prickly pear perahps thanks to its copious, long white spines.
Utah grizzlybear cactus (Opuntia utahensis) is also known as O. erinacea var. utahensis but now seems to be considered as Opuntia polyacantha var. eriancea. By whatever name, this Charles B. collection is a stunner with long spines that emerge cinnamon becoming bright white and obscure the large, somewhat elongated pads. The flowers are yellow often developing orange or pinkish tones as they age or magenta. Our stock plant has not yet bloomed so we’re waiting to see! Growth habit is 8 to 12 inches tall and up to 24 inches wide. Plant in full sun in sharp draining soil. Reports of zone hardiness vary but this, being from Utah should easily do zone 4.
Common Name: Utah Grizzlybear Cactus
Family: Cactaceae (The Cactus Family)
Zone Hardiness: 4-10
Light: Full Sun
Height: 8-12"
Width: 2-3'
Primary Bloom Colour: Yellow
Secondary Bloom Colour: Magenta
Bloom Time: Spring - Summer
Foliage Colour: Green, Bluish
Class: Evergreen
Type: Perennial
Soil Moisture: Dry, Drought Tolerant
Stem Colour:
Fragrance: No
Berries: Purple
Benefits: Bees
Deer Resistant: Yes
BC Native: Yes
Native Habitat: Desert scrub and grassland and pinyon woodland in alluvial, sandy or gravelly soils from 1000-1400 metres.
Award:
Geographical Origin: North America
