Opuntia macrorhiza Twist-spine prickly pear (Cactaceae) Evergreen perennial

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Opuntia macrorhiza
Twist-spine prickly pear
Evergreen perennial
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The Opuntia macrorhiza plant species is found in Southwestern N. America - Texas to Missouri and Kansas. It is a member of the Cactaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Twist-spine prickly pear.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Opuntia macrorhiza
Common Name:  Twist-spine prickly pear
Family:  Cactaceae
Author:  Engelm.

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:  0.12   Mature Width:  0.8

Habitat:  Sandy, gravelly or rocky soil in grasslands[228]. Plants can sometimes persist for years under invading trees[228].

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 the 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. A fairly cold tolerant plant, it can succeed outdoors in a selected site in the milder areas of the country[200]. This species is closely related to O. compressa[235].

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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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