Eastern Prickly Pear

LFC-OPHU-QT

$16.99

Eastern Prickly Pear is a low growing native cactus for sunny rock gardens, dry banks, and gravel beds. Its green pads spread into a low clump, with bright yellow flowers in early summer and red fruit later in the season. The pads naturally wrinkle and flatten in winter, then plump back up in spring.

Our plants are propagated from pads of Washington County, Maryland stock.

Growing Conditions

Sun exposureFull sun

Soil moistureDry

Mature height1.0 ft

Bloom period

May, June

Flower color

Yellow

Natural habitat

Dry slopes & ridges, Shale barrens & rocky outcrops

Planting & Care

Plant in full sun in dry, sharply drained soil. A rocky slope, gravel bed, or raised rock garden works well. Water lightly while it establishes and let the soil dry between waterings. Give it room to spread away from walkways and other places where people or pets might brush against it.

Ecology & Wildlife

Bees visit the yellow flowers, and wildlife, including box turtles, may eat the ripe fruit.

Seed & Plant Provenance

Washington Co, MD

Estimated availability: Spring 2027

Disclosures

The pads and fruit have tiny barbed bristles called glochids that can stick in skin. Use tongs and thick gloves when handling. Plant away from paths and play areas.

Eastern Prickly Pear

Growing Conditions

Disclosures

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