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Description
Opuntia Chlorotica, also known as the Pancake Prickly Pear, belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is a species of cactus that is native to North America and can be found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This plant typically grows up to 2.5 feet tall and 3.5 feet wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Opuntia |
| Species | Opuntia Chlorotica |
Appearance
The Pancake Prickly Pear has flat, rounded pads that are green in color and covered in spines. In the spring, it produces yellow flowers that are about 2 inches in diameter. The fruit that follows the flowers is edible and has a sweet taste, but it is covered in small spines that must be removed before eating. This plant is a great addition to a desert garden or xeriscape due to its unique appearance.
Care Guide
Water: Opuntia Chlorotica is a drought-tolerant plant that requires little water. It is best to water it deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilizer, but you can fertilize it once a year in the spring with a low-nitrogen fertilizer.
Soil: The Pancake Prickly Pear prefers well-draining soil and can thrive in rocky soil, sandy soil, or loamy soil.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones: Opuntia Chlorotica is hardy in USDA zones 8a to 11b.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Pancake Prickly Pear is generally pest-free, but it can suffer from fungal diseases if it is overwatered. The most common disease is root rot, which can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering. Pests such as mealybugs and scale insects can also infest this plant, but they can be removed by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
Habitat
Opuntia Chlorotica is native to North America and can be found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in dry, rocky, and sandy areas, including deserts, chaparrals, and grasslands. This plant is well-adapted to hot and dry climates and can survive long periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Opuntia Chlorotica a fast-growing plant?
A: No, this plant is a slow grower.
Q: Can I grow Opuntia Chlorotica in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow this plant in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives plenty of sunlight.
Q: Is the fruit of Opuntia Chlorotica edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of this plant is edible but must be carefully handled due to the spines on the fruit.
Q: Does Opuntia Chlorotica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, this plant can attract birds and insects, including bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Opuntia Ficus-Indica
- Opuntia Imbricata
- Opuntia Microdasys
- Opuntia Polyacantha
References
- “Opuntia Chlorotica.” The Spruce, 2021, https://www.thespruce.com/pancake-prickly-pear-plant-profile-5070770.
- “Opuntia Chlorotica.” Desert USA, 2021, https://www.desertusa.com/flora/opuntia-chlorotica.html.
- “Opuntia Chlorotica.” Arizona State University, 2021, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/opuntia.html.
