About
As a result of its ability to survive in such a diverse array of environments there are several subspecies of O. sulphurea that are identifiable based on the number of spine per areole, for example. A commonality across the three is a bright yellow flower, often considered to be the color of sulfur, from which the species name is derived. As a result of its tendency to grow in dry, arid, and rocky areas this cactus has evolved to be very resilient, not even suffering from the effects of agriculture, i.e. cattle grazing, on lower altitude subpopulations. Plant in well-drained soil. Stake young.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Opuntia sulphurea
About the genus
Opuntia, commonly called the prickly pear cactus, is a genus of flowering plants in the cactus family Cactaceae, many known for their flavorful fruit and showy flowers. Between 8,000 and 9,000 years ago, the Opuntia prickly pear cactus was domesticated in central Mexico. Cacti are native to the Americas, and are well adapted to arid climates; however, they are still vulnerable to alterations in precipitation and temperature driven by climate change.
Wikipedia contributors, "Opuntia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Opuntia
Plant details
Opuntia sulphurea size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
