Opuntia elatior (Red-Flower Prickly Pear)

Opuntia elatior (Red-Flower Prickly Pear) is a big succulent shrub, eventually becoming tree-like, with a well-defined primary trunk and a profusion of flat, oblong, olive green pads, up to 16 in. long (40 cm). Bright white, needle-like spines (aging to gray-brown) are clustered in groups of 2-8. Sitting on the outer edges of the pads, a profusion of large, long-lasting, orange or reddish flowers appear in spring or summer. They are followed by egg-shaped fruits, that ripen to reddish-pink.

• Typically grows up to 3-8 ft. tall and wide (90-240 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in well-drained soils. This plant tolerates a wide variety of soils as long as they are well-draining. Extra water during the dry summer months is encouraged but seldom needed. Drought tolerant once established.
• This low-maintenance plant is a great choice for xeriscape gardens, Mediterranean gardens and desert gardens.
• This remarkable plant is deer resistant and is easy to care for.
• Generally pest and disease free.
• Propagate from stem cuttings.
• Red-Flower Prickly Pear is regarded as a potential environmental weed in many parts of Australia.
• Native to northern South America, southern Central America and the southern Lesser Antilles.