Opuntia polycantha (Plains Pricklypear, Hairspine Cactus, Panhandle Pricklypear)
Botanical Information
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Opuntia |
| Species | polycantha |
| Category | Perennials, Tropicals, Wildflowers & Weeds |
| Origin | Western North America including Canada. |
| Ethnobotanical Uses Disclaimer | Stem pads were once used as food for both humans and livestock while fresh portions of the stem were used to treat wounds. |
Details
| USDA Hardiness Ref. | |
| Canada Hardiness Ref. | |
| RHS Hardiness Zone | H7 |
| RHS Hardiness Ref. | |
| Height | 40 cm |
| Growth | Medium |
Description and Growing Information
| General Description | A low growing, spreading plant with spines that are variable in number and colour. |
| Pests | Several insects attack the cactus, including the cactus moth, the blue cactus borer, and the cactus bug. |
| Notable Specimens | The A.M. Cuddy Gardens, Strathroy, Ontario, Canada. |
| Habitat | Favouring sandy soils. |
| Leaf Description | Succulent green pads are oval or circular and reach 27 x 18 cm wide. |
| Flower Description | The flowers are 2.5 - 4 cm long and may be yellow or magenta in colour. |
| Fruit Description | The fruit is cylindrical, brownish, dry and spiny. |
Photographs
