Prickly Pear Cactus 'Yellow'

Opuntia polyacantha 'Yellow' is a low, mat-forming prickly pear with flattened pads. The species grows outward over time and produces showy flowers, with color and flowering dates varying by population and climate. ## Form and season The Royal Horticultural Society describes low mats reaching up to about 40 cm tall and 1.5–2.5 m wide. It records solitary yellow or magenta flowers in summer. In the Arches region, the National Park Service reports flowers from April to June and a wider palette that includes yellow, bronze, pink, and violet; insects and hummingbirds pollinate the species there. These broad species records are useful for garden planning, while local conditions influence the display of an individual plant. ([RHS](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/11886/opuntia-polyacantha/details), [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov/arch/learn/nature/cactaceae_opuntia_polyacantha.htm)) ## Placement Grow in full sun in sharply drained loam or sand. Rock gardens and well-drained patio containers suit its low, spreading habit. Give the pads room to expand and avoid placing them where passersby may brush against the spines. ## Maintenance Handle with gloves and eye protection because spines and barbed bristles may irritate skin and eyes. In containers, the RHS recommends allowing compost to dry between spring-to-early-autumn waterings and withholding water during winter dormancy.