08/24/2026
Plant of the Month: Opuntia • Common Name(s): Cactus Pear; Prickly Pear Cactus; Rabbit Ears Cactus; Tree Cactus • Previously known as: Nopal; Phyllarthus; Platyopuntia; Plutonopuntia
Opuntia, commonly known as the Prickly Pear Cactus, is a striking cactus that adds bold texture and year-round structural interest to the home landscape. Its broad, paddle-shaped pads and vibrant yellow, orange, red, or purple blooms are followed by colorful, edible fruits that attract both gardeners and wildlife. Thriving in full sun and well-drained soil, this heat-loving plant is an excellent choice for xeriscapes, rock gardens, and low-maintenance landscapes.
One of the greatest advantages of Opuntia is its exceptional drought tolerance. While many plants struggle during extended dry spells, prickly pear continues to thrive and requires little supplemental water once established, making it an outstanding choice for water-wise gardening. Once established, it requires minimal care while providing dramatic architectural beauty and seasonal flowers, proving that a resilient garden can also be both productive and beautiful.
You can see this plant in person in the Arbor Gate Teaching Garden, located at the Alamance County Cooperative Extension.
Information Source: https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/opuntia/
Got gardening questions? Give us a call at (336) 570-6740 or email [email protected].