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Opuntia cacanapa ‘Ellisiana’ (Hardy Spineless Prickly Pear)

Opuntia cacanapa 'Ellisiana'
Hardy Spineless Prickly Pear

When someone asks for a cold-hardy spineless prickly pear, this is the one to use! Originating in south Texas and Mexico, it is free of those annoying glochids and spines, and can handle temperatures down to zero. It is also extremely heat tolerant, and its low spreading nature makes it an ideal choice for roadways plantings and even green roofs. During the summer months it sports large, bright yellow blossoms that provide nectar for hummingbirds. These are followed by attractive and edible bright red fruits called "tunas". It is said to be deer resistant. It grows well in full sun or filtered shade, and prefers well-drained soils.

Plant Type Native, Cactus / Succulent
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Shade
Water Needs Average
Hardiness Zone Zone 7 (0° F)
Flower Color Yellow
Flower Season Summer
Growth Rate Slow
Height 4 (ft)
Spread 6 (ft)
Spacing 5' (ft)
Characteristics Showy
Attracts Hummingbirds, Pollinators
Maintenance Low
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Tolerance Cold, Deer, Heat
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil PH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Image by: MSWN
Image by: MSWN

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This catalog is for reference purposes only. All plants may not be available at all times in the nursery. Please check with our store for current availability.