About
Opuntia humifusa, spreading prickly pear, is a low-growing, mat-forming cactus producing flat, oval, mid-green stem segments and funnel-shaped, bright-yellow flowers in summer. One of the hardiest of the prickly pears � a rewarding ornamental cactus for a sunny, very well-drained border in a mild garden.
About the genus
Opuntia are creeping, bushy or tree-like cacti with flattened, pad-like stem segments bearing spines and barbed bristles, and funnel-shaped flowers followed by spiny, fleshy fruits. Grown in sunny, well-drained positions in frost-free gardens and heated greenhouses.
Plant details
Suggested usesSpecimen planting, gardens, parks.
Care notes
CultivationPlant in well-drained soil. Stake young.
PruningPrune in late winter or after flowering.
PropagationPropagate by division, cuttings, or seed.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant.