.plant-container { font-family: inherit; } .plant-container ul { list-style: none; padding-left: 0; margin-left: 0; } .plant-container li { display: flex; align-items: center; margin-bottom: 8px; line-height: 1.6; padding-left: 0; } .plant-container img { width: 24px; height: auto; margin-right: 10px; vertical-align: middle; flex-shrink: 0; } Cactus - Prickly Pear (Opuntia) Description A resilient, drought-tolerant cactus featuring flat, paddle-shaped stems dotted with spines. It produces vibrant, yellow to orange flowers in late spring to early summer, followed by edible, sweet fruit known as prickly pears. Suggested Uses Perfect for xeriscape gardens, rockeries, and containers. Adds striking color and texture to landscape designs and is ideal for drought-prone areas. Plant Details Botanical Name: Opuntia spp. Common Name: Prickly Pear Size & Growth: 3-6 ft tall, spreading to 8 ft wide, grows slowly Hardiness Zones: 8-11 Foliage Type: Flat, paddle-shaped stems Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Light Requirements: Full sun Attracts Pollinators: Bees and butterflies Indoor Friendly: No Container Friendly: Yes Deer Resistant: Yes Pet Warning: Contains spines that may cause irritation Fragrant: No Cut Flower: No Grows Well With: Succulents and xeriscape plants Care Tips Planting Instructions: Plant in well-draining soil in full sun; avoid overwatering. Soil Moisture: Very dry; drought-tolerant Soil Type: Sandy or rocky well-draining soil Humidity: Low Pruning Instructions: Remove dead pads and encourage shape with minimal trimming Winter Care: Bring indoors or provide protection in colder zones Planting Depth: Plant at same depth as in container Fertilization: Occasional cactus or succulents fertilizer during growing season Special Care: Protect from frost; avoid overwatering