Opuntia robusta (Silver Dollar Prickly Pear)

Opuntia robusta (Silver Dollar Prickly Pear) is a large, often erect, succulent shrub or small tree with huge, silvery-blue, round, fleshy pads, up to 20 in. wide (50 cm). Thick and heavy, a single pad can weigh up to 4 pounds (2 kg)! The pads may be without spines or with white spines, about 1-2 in. long (2-5 cm). Sitting on the outer edges of the pads, large saucer-shaped, bright yellow flowers appear in spring. They are followed by a profusion of round and large, edible, deep red fruits that are best for animal feeding.

• This Opuntia can grow low or to a significant height. Grows up to 3-15 ft. tall and wide (90-450 cm).
• Performs best in full sun or light shade, in well-drained soils. This plant tolerates a wide variety of soils as long as they are well-draining. Keep dry in winter but provide occasional water during the growing season. Do not overwater and allow to dry fully before watering again. Drought tolerant.
• This low-maintenance plant tolerates considerable neglect and will naturalize. Easy to cultivate outdoor in warm, dry climates, it is a great choice for xeriscape gardens, desert gardens, Mediterranean gardens and cactus gardens.
• This remarkable plant is deer resistant and is easy to care for.
• Generally disease-free. Should be nearly pest-free if grown with adequate exposure and ventilation.
• Propagate from seed and from branch segments.
• Opuntias bear spines and stiff bristles that can be very irritating to the skin.
• Native to central and Northern Mexico.