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Erect Prickly Pear

Opuntia stricta, Cactaceae

Zones
8–11
Layer
Shrub
Lifespan
Perennial
Growth
Moderate

Guild Roles

ProducerGround CoverBeneficial Insect Habitat

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)

Water

Low (established)

Soil pH

6 – 8

Tolerances

Drought
Frost
Heat
Pest Resistance
Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Beavertail CactusOpuntia basilaris
Pollinator SharingBeneficial Insect Habitat
Crown FlowerCalotropis gigantea
Pollinator SharingPest Deterrent
Catclaw AcaciaAcacia greggii
Nitrogen FixationNurse Plant

Antagonistic Plants

Cardona Prickly PearOpuntia streptacantha

Opuntia species have similar shallow root systems that compete for limited desert moisture

Uses

Functions

Living FenceWater HarvestingEmergency FoodErosion Control

Edible Parts

FruitsPads

Medicinal Uses

Anti-InflammatoryWound Healing

Common Questions

What zones does Erect Prickly Pear grow in?

Erect Prickly Pear grows in USDA hardiness zones 8 through 11.

What are good companion plants for Erect Prickly Pear?

Good companions for Erect Prickly Pear include Beavertail Cactus, Crown Flower, Catclaw Acacia.

Design guilds with Erect Prickly Pear and see companion relationships visually.

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