Opuntia fragilis
brittle pricklypear
Overview
Opuntia fragilis is a small, low-growing prickly pear cactus forming mats 2-6 in (5-15 cm) tall and spreading 12-24 in (30-60 cm) wide. The pads, or cladodes, are small and nearly cylindrical to slightly flattened, 0.75-2 in (2-5 cm) long, and detach at the slightest contact, which gives the species its name and aids vegetative spread when segments root where they land. Each pad bears scattered spines and tufts of barbed glochids. Pale to bright yellow flowers about 1-2 in (2.5-5 cm) across open in early summer, followed by dry, spiny fruits. Its range extends from the southwestern United States north through the Great Plains into the Canadian prairies and central British Columbia, reaching roughly 58 degrees north. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9 and shrivels flat through winter, then plumps up in spring. It grows in dry, sunny, sandy or rocky ground and rots in soils that stay moist. The detaching pads cling to skin, fur, and clothing.
Native Range
Opuntia fragilis is native to central and western North America. Its range extends from the southwestern United States north through the Great Plains into the Canadian prairies and central British Columbia. It grows on dry, open sand, gravel, and rock outcrops.Suggested Uses
Used in rock gardens, trough plantings, xeriscapes, and cold-climate succulent collections, spaced 12-18 in (30-45 cm) apart. The flowers attract native bees.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height2" - 6"
Width/Spread1' - 2'
Reaches mature size in approximately 3 years
Colors
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs in early to mid summer, generally June to July, with bloom lasting about 2-3 weeks. The yellow flowers open during the day. Many plants flower sparsely, and dry fruits follow the flowers.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
green to blue-green (pads)Growing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Opuntia fragilis grows in full sun and sharp-draining sandy, gravelly, or rocky soils with pH from 6.0 to 8.0. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 9 and survives severe winter cold by losing water from the pads, which shrivel and lie flat, then refill in spring. Water needs are very low, and soils that stay wet, especially in winter, cause rot. It tolerates heat, wind, and prolonged drought once established. The pads detach easily and the barbed glochids embed in skin.Pruning
Detached pads can be lifted away with tongs to control the spread of the mat. Segments that fall root readily, so clearing them helps limit colonization. Damaged or rotting pads can be cut away at the base.Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 2 gallons