plant succulent cactus Opuntia chisosensis
Succulent Plants
Aloe
Agave
Cactus
Crassula
Haworthia
Mesemb
Foliage/Tropical
Alocasia
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Palm
Peperomia
Opuntia engelmannii is common in the dry areas of South and Central Texas, Mexico and sparingly in the Trans-Pecos possibly into New Mexico to an elevation of 4600 feet. This thicket-forming and heavy-bodied cactus may be erect to 5 feet or more with an equal spread. New growth is bluish green and holds its color very well. Mature pads can grow to be quite large (10-12 inch across) almost circular in shape. Bowl-shaped flowers appear in mid-summer and may be red, orange or yellow. A particular plant usually produces only one flower color. The fruit varies in shape, ripening in late Summer, red to purple with scattered tufts of glochids. Of course many animals and birds feed on the fruit. There is a legend that the coyote brushes the spines off the fruit with his tail before eating it. Generally Opuntias are exceptionally tolerant of dry air and blazing heat though quite able to hold their ground in the freezing wet. Our unblemished selection lives outside year-round where it's subject to ranging temperature of 10°-115°F. How about that? Depending on availability, your plant will have 1-3 pads. The root systems are well-developed and should be ready to go in the ground given you do your planting in early-mid spring. Plant partial shade to full-sun. However tolerant of drought, your Opuntia will appreciate a good soak once so often. Being a relatively quick grower (compared to other cactus) you can later trim your plant back to a desired height. Or snip a healthy pad from its joint, and store the cutting in a cool shaded area for a week or so. By placing the pad upright in a DRY pot of soil, you're almost sure to see new growth by next growing season. Hold the urge to water until little roots begin to grow (even if it takes months)! Unlike tender tropicals, Opuntia is readily able to endure months of drought. -- Native Habitat: Central Texas -- USDA Plant Hardiness: -- -- keywords: | ||||||||||||||||
