Opuntia robusta
Silver Dollar, Giant Prickly Pear C
Description
Silver Dollar Prickly Pear is a large species, growing to about 20' tall by 12' wide. Blue green pads can reach 1' long by 8" across and are generally heavily thorned. Yellow flowers are produced in the spring. These plants do best in full sun and can survive on very little rainfall. It needs protection from any frost. Fleshy, barrel shaped, pink or purple fruit follow the flowers. Fruit is edible.
Plant Type
Succulent, Cactus
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Blue Green
Bark Color
n/a
Fruit Color
Red
Fruit Season
Summer
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low
Growth Rate
Fast
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
Thorns/Spines
Design Styles
Mediterranean, Ranch, Spanish
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Silhouette, Specimen, Unusual Foliage, Unusual Shape
Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer
Location Uses
Background, Shrub Border, Foundation, Raised Planter, Roadside, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Hedge, Mass Planting, Fire Resistant, Naturalizing
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost or aged sawdust.