Opuntia fragilis Prickly pear (Cactaceae) Evergreen perennial

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Opuntia fragilis
Prickly pear
Evergreen perennial
(1 Page of 5)

The Opuntia fragilis plant species is found in N. America - Iowa, Wisconsin and Minnesota to South Dakota, British Columbia, Kansas and Utah. It is a member of the Cactaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Prickly pear.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Opuntia fragilis
Common Name:  Prickly pear
Family:  Cactaceae
Author:  (Nutt.)Haw.

Known Hazards:  The plant has numerous minutely barbed glochids (hairs) that are easily dislodged when the plant is touched and they then become stuck to the skin where they are difficult to see and remove. They can cause considerable discomfort[200].

Mature Height:  0.1   Mature Width:  0.3

Habitat:  Dry prairies, sandhills and rocks[204].

Cultivation Notes: Requires a sandy or very well-drained soil[160]. Prefers a pH in the range 6 to 7.5[200]. Plants must be kept fairly dry in winter but they like a reasonable supply of water in the growing season[200]. A position at the base of a south-facing wall or somewhere that can be protected from winter rain is best for this plant. Requires warmth and plenty of sun. Plants tolerate considerable neglect. This species is fairly cold tolerant and can succeed outdoors in a selected site in the milder areas of the country[200].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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