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Description
Opuntia Lasiacantha, commonly known as the Big Bend Prickly Pear, is a cactus species that belongs to the Cactaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Texas and New Mexico, and northern Mexico. This plant has flat, paddle-shaped segments that are covered with spines and glochids. The flowers of the Big Bend Prickly Pear are usually yellow or orange and bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Cactaceae |
| Genus | Opuntia |
Appearance
The Big Bend Prickly Pear has flat, paddle-shaped segments that can grow up to 12 inches long and 6 inches wide. The segments are covered with spines and glochids, which are small hair-like structures that can easily detach and cause skin irritation. The flowers of the Big Bend Prickly Pear are usually yellow or orange and bloom in the summer. The fruits are edible and are called tunas, which are reddish-purple and have a sweet taste.
Care Guide
The Big Bend Prickly Pear is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this cactus species:
- Water: This plant can survive in drought conditions and prefers well-draining soil. Water it only when the soil is completely dry.
- Fertilization: You can fertilize this plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: The Big Bend Prickly Pear prefers sandy or rocky soil that is well-draining.
- Sunlight: This cactus species prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Big Bend Prickly Pear can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F and is hardy in USDA zones 7b to 10a.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Big Bend Prickly Pear is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to cochineal scale, which can cause yellowing and stunted growth. To control the infestation, you can prune the affected areas or use a horticultural oil spray. Other pests that may attack this plant include mealybugs and spider mites. As for diseases, the Big Bend Prickly Pear can develop root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
The Big Bend Prickly Pear is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Texas and New Mexico, and northern Mexico. It can be found in various habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and rocky slopes. This plant has adapted to survive in harsh environments and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I eat the fruits of the Big Bend Prickly Pear?
A: Yes, the fruits of the Big Bend Prickly Pear are edible and are called tunas. They have a sweet taste and can be used in various recipes such as jams and jellies.
Q: How often should I water the Big Bend Prickly Pear?
A: You should water the Big Bend Prickly Pear only when the soil is completely dry. This plant can survive in drought conditions and prefers well-draining soil.
Q: Is the Big Bend Prickly Pear toxic to pets?
A: The spines and glochids of the Big Bend Prickly Pear can cause skin irritation to pets. It is recommended to keep this plant out of reach of pets.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of the Big Bend Prickly Pear?
A: The Big Bend Prickly Pear is hardy in USDA zones 7b to 10a and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F.
Related Plants
- Opuntia engelmannii
- Opuntia ficus-indica
- Opuntia humifusa
- Opuntia polyacantha
References
- “Opuntia Lasiacantha.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 2 December 2021. www.plantsoftheworldonline.org.
- “Opuntia Lasiacantha.” Arizona State University. Accessed 2 December 2021. www.cactuscenter.asu.edu.
- “Big Bend Prickly Pear.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 2 December 2021. www.wildflower.org.
