This native of the southwestern U.S. and northern Mexico forms large sage green pads with clusters of brown glochids and occasional long spines. Showy orange or yellow flowers in the spring are followed by rosy-red fruit. Plant in full sun to part shade, well-drained soils, and allow plenty of room for development. Birds feast on the fruit and nest among the pads.
Opuntia engelmannii (Engelmann’s Prickly Pear)
Opuntia engelmannii
Engelmann Prickly Pear, Cactus Apple
This native of the southwestern U.S. and northern Mexico forms large sage green pads with clusters of brown glochids and occasional long spines. Showy orange or yellow flowers in the spring are followed by rosy-red fruit. Plant in full sun to part shade, well-drained soils, and allow plenty of room for development. Birds feast on the fruit and nest among the pads.
| Plant Type | Native, Cactus / Succulent |
| Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
| Water Needs | Low |
| Hardiness Zone | Zone 8 (10° F) |
| Flower Color | Orange |
| Flower Season | Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter |
| Growth Rate | Moderate, Slow |
| Height | 3' - 6' (ft) |
| Spread | 3' - 6' (ft) |
| Spacing | 3' - 6' (ft) |
| Characteristics | Showy |
| Attracts | Birds, Hummingbirds |
| Maintenance | Low |
| Garden Uses | Beds and Borders, Hedges and Screens |
| Tolerance | Deer, Drought, Dry Soil, Rabbit, Rocky Soil |
| Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
| Soil PH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
| Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Image by: MSWN
Image by: MSWN
Image by: MSWN
This catalog is for reference purposes. Plants may not be available at all times in the nursery. Please check with our store for current availability.
