Opuntia santarita
Opuntia santarita
Santa Rita prickly pear
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Common Names
Santa Rita prickly pearSanta Rita opuntiaSanta Rita prickly-pear cactus
Context
nativeRegion
Southwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico) and northern Mexico.
usdaZones
8-11
companionPlants
Agave, Yucca, Dasylirion, Echinocereus
culturalUses
Native landscaping, xeriscaping. Sometimes cultivated for ornamental color and drought tolerance.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun; tolerates partial shade but thrives with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
WateringLow water needs. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Drought tolerant.
SoilWell-draining, sandy or rocky soil. Avoid heavy clay; cactus potting mix preferred.
FertilizerRarely needed. Can apply low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer once during spring growth.
HumidityPrefers low humidity. Avoid prolonged high humidity.
TemperatureHardy to 15°F (-9°C). Ideal between 50-95°F (10-35°C). Protect from frost if possible.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitClumping, shrubby cactus with flattened, rounded pads.
Mature SizeUp to 5 feet (1.5 m) tall and wide.
Growth RateModerate growth rate under optimal conditions.
BloomingBlooms in late spring to early summer; large yellow flowers with reddish centers.
DormancyGoes dormant in winter; reduce watering substantially.
Propagation
MethodsPad cuttings, Seed
DifficultyEasy
Best SeasonSpring to early summer
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove damaged or diseased pads as needed. Wear gloves to avoid spines.
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when pot-bound.
Pests & DiseasesGenerally resistant; may be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and root rot if overwatered.
ToxicityMildly toxic to pets if ingested. Pads have spines and glochids that can irritate skin.
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