Opuntia macrocentra (Black-spined Pricklypear)


Botanical Information

FamilyCactaceae
GenusOpuntia
Speciesmacrocentra
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals
TypeShrub (evergreen)
OriginTexas to Arizona, United States of America.

Details

USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Height90 cm
GrowthSlow
Flowering PeriodMarch, April, May, June, July

Description and Growing Information

ShapeUpright spreading shrub consisting of several joined segments
Notable SpecimensDesert Botanical Gardens, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America.
HabitatSandy desert flats, rocky hills, or valley grasslands of the southwestern United States of America.
Leaf Description10 - 20 cm round to oval shaped leaves that are flat and purple.
Flower DescriptionFlowers are 15 cm long and red or yellow in colour.
Fruit DescriptionSmall oval shaped fruits ranging in colour from bright red to dull purple when ripe.

Photographs