Contents
Description
Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris, also known as Beavertail cactus, is a type of cactus that belongs to the family Cactaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This cactus is characterized by its flat, rounded pads that are covered in small spines and hairs. The pads are blue-green to gray-green in color and can grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The flowers of Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris are usually pink, purple, or magenta in color and bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small red or purple berry that is edible.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Opuntia |
Appearance
The Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris cactus has flat, round pads that are covered in small spines and hairs. The pads are blue-green to gray-green in color and can grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The flowers are usually pink, purple, or magenta in color and bloom in late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small red or purple berry that is edible.
Care Guide
Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris is a hardy cactus that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the cactus sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering. In the winter, reduce watering to once a month.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the cactus once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a cactus fertilizer.
- Soil: The cactus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Use a cactus mix or add sand and perlite to regular potting soil to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The cactus needs full sun to thrive. Place it in a sunny window or outdoors in a sunny spot.
- Hardiness Zones: Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris is hardy in USDA zones 8a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris cactus is susceptible to a few pests and diseases:
- Cochineal Scale: These insects look like white cottony masses on the cactus pads. They feed on the sap and can cause yellowing and wilting of the pads. Treat with insecticidal soap or alcohol.
- Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot. Symptoms include yellowing and wilting of the pads. To prevent root rot, water sparingly and use well-draining soil.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease appears as brown or black spots on the pads. It can be prevented by not getting the pads wet when watering and improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in dry, rocky areas and can tolerate high temperatures and drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the cactus can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris?
A: Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: Is the fruit of Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is a small red or purple berry that is edible.
Q: Can Opuntia Basilaris Var. Basilaris tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, the cactus is hardy in USDA zones 8a to 11b and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.
Related Plants
- Opuntia Ficus-Indica
- Opuntia Microdasys
- Opuntia Imbricata
- Opuntia Polyacantha
References
- Arizona State University Herbarium. (n.d.). Opuntia basilaris var. basilaris. Retrieved from https://herbarium.asu.edu/content/opuntia-basilaris-var-basilaris-0
- Gardening Know How. (n.d.). Beavertail Cactus Info: How To Grow Beavertail Cactus Plants. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/cacti-succulents/beavertail-cactus/beavertail-cactus-info.htm
- Roth, A. (2015). Opuntia basilaris var. basilaris. Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/opuntia_basilaris_var_basilaris.shtml
