Opuntia ellisianaThe thornless, hardy Prickly Pear is a popular cactus that showcases stunning large yellow flowers during the summer months. While it might be thornless, it does have tiny glaucids on the pads that can be a bit prickly if you accidentally touch them, but don’t worry—duct tape works wonders for removing them. This cactus features big, round pads that can grow up to 4 feet tall and can quickly create beautiful patches that spread up to 8 feet wide. It’s especially good at handling wet winter weather, but it loves soil enriched with gravel and pumice to ensure that drainage is tip-top. You’ll find it flourishing on sunny slopes with excellent drainage and it makes a perfect addition under the south-facing eaves of a house. It can also be planted in containers, just remember to keep them safe from heavy winter moisture and give them a cozy spot in winter. The cactus is cold-hardy down to 10ºF, although too much wet and freezing cold can cause some pads to shrivel up a bit. Not to worry, though. It tends to bounce back quickly in the spring. Just keep in mind that it spreads quite rapidly, so be sure to give it plenty of space. Plus, it's moderately resistant to deer, making it a great choice for your garden.Height: 3’-6’Spread: 3’-6’Bloom: May-JuneLight: Full SunWater: LowZone: 7-10Origin: Texas & Mexico
