Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 2.0 - 00001005
01/01/98

Opuntia compressa--Hardy Prickly Pear Cactus

Hardiness Zones: 4 to 7                                     
Height: 10 in   Spread: 18 in                               
Type: herbaceous perennial                                  
Flowers: Yellow                                             

Comments: This hardy cactus is about the only one useful    
for northern gardens or in dry soils.   Use it with care    
as the small brown hairs on the pads can cause skin         
irritation.  The plant needs a sunny location and a well-   
drained soil.  The yellow, 2- to 3-inch flowers are         
followed by red, inedible fruit about one inch long.  The   
plant grows 8 to 10 inches tall and is quite prostrate.     
The pads look shriveled in the winter if not given          
protection.                                                 

Propagation: Propagation is by cuttings.  Allow the         
cuttings to dry then put the joint between two pads in      
sand to root.                                               

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