Tulip Prickly Pear Cactus 'Yellow'

The tulip prickly pear is a perennial cactus with flattened pads and an erect-to-sprawling habit. The broader species profile describes its seasonal flowers and fruits, while garden size varies with climate and available space. ## Form and flowering North Carolina State Extension describes *Opuntia phaeacantha* as a slow-growing cactus with bluish-green pads that may redden under stress, yellow flowers with red bases in April and May, and reddish-purple summer fruit. The species can form dense thickets and may reach much larger dimensions in open habitat than in managed gardens. The same extension profile lists USDA hardiness zones 7a–10b and notes that the species hybridizes readily with other prickly pears, which can complicate identification. ([NC State Extension Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/opuntia-phaeacantha/common-name/tulip-prickly-pear/)) ## Placement Use a sunny, dry site with sandy or rocky soil that drains quickly. The species tolerates heat and drought and is intolerant of soggy soil. Its flowers attract pollinators and its fruits are used by wildlife, making it useful in a sunny rock garden or a spacious, carefully sited container. ## Maintenance Water sparingly once established and avoid overwatering. Wear sturdy gloves when handling pads: the spines and tiny barbed glochids can puncture and irritate skin. Monitor for scale and mealybugs, and keep the plant away from narrow paths.