Opuntia polyacantha

Opuntia polyacantha Haw. is an accepted succulent subshrub species in Cactaceae, independently recognized by [Kew](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:290995-2). This record represents that species without a named Rose or Yellow selection, a particular British Columbia population or identified nursery material. ## FireSmart BC — qualified printed-name and placement context The [FireSmart BC plant tool](https://firesmartbc.ca/landscaping-hub/fire-resistant-plants/) prints Opuntia polycantha* / Prickly Pear Cactus* with an Intermediate Zone marker. The accepted spelling is O. polyacantha, supported by [the National Park Service species account](https://www.nps.gov/arch/learn/nature/cactaceae_opuntia_polyacantha.htm). This qualified association preserves that spelling interpretation and source placement only. The chart's asterisk means native plants that may not be commercially available; it remains a source claim, not verified BC native status or proof of assessed material. Regional accounts differ. [VASCAN](https://data.canadensys.net/vascan/name/Opuntia%20polyacantha) includes British Columbia in a distribution computed from lower taxa. [E-Flora BC](https://linnet.geog.ubc.ca/Atlas/Atlas.aspx?noTransfer=0&sciname=Opuntia+fragilis) no longer recognizes O. polyacantha as present in the province and reports cactus identification there is not fully clear. Kew's species distribution does not list BC. The source's regional biological concept, native-marker applicability, compiler intent and actual material therefore remain unresolved. Do not identify it as O. fragilis, equate it with Rose or Yellow selections, or transfer this context to them. Source dimensions, water and hardiness values are not adopted as scalar traits or attribute tags. The chart defines the Intermediate Zone as 1.5–10 metres from the home. A documentary placement association does not establish a flammability test or suitability of authenticated O. polyacantha material in that location. Follow current Home Ignition Zone guidance, maintain separation, water appropriately and remove dead material. Confirm actual identity and local suitability before specification; fire-resistant does not mean fireproof.