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(Opuntia rufida)
Blind Pricklypear (Opuntia rufida)
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Claudio Cantú Muñiz
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Claudio Cantú Muñiz
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Claudio Cantú Muñiz | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Claudio Cantú Muñiz | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2019-03-25T23:49:31Z |
Estimated Native Range
Climate Requirements
| • Precipitation | 11" - 13" |
| • High Temp. | 88°F - 100°F |
| • Low Temp. | 35°F - 41°F |
Summary
Opuntia rufida, commonly known as Blind Pricklypear, is an evergreen succulent native to the Chihuahuan Desert in Northeastern Mexico and the Western Texas region. It is a multi-branched cactus that typically reaches 3 to 5 feet in height and may spread slightly wider. The plant has a short trunk, and its thick, tomentose pads are subcircular to obovate or elliptical in shape. During mid-spring, Blind Pricklypear produces a profusion of brilliant yellow flowers that mature to orange and red, each measuring 3 to 4 inches across. By summer, the oblong fruit ripens to a bright red or purple, approximately 2 to 3 inches long, adding to the plant’s ornamental value.
Blind Pricklypear is valued for its striking flowers and colorful fruit, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and desert gardens. It is well-suited to rock gardens, succulent collections, and as a focal point in drought-tolerant landscapes. This cactus thrives in full sun and is highly tolerant of desert heat and drought. It requires well-draining soil and minimal water once established. While it is generally low-maintenance, gardeners should be cautious of its fine, barbed spines, which can detach easily and are an eye irritant. Opuntia rufida is potentially invasive in some regions outside its native range, so it is important to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Blind Pricklypear is valued for its striking flowers and colorful fruit, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and desert gardens. It is well-suited to rock gardens, succulent collections, and as a focal point in drought-tolerant landscapes. This cactus thrives in full sun and is highly tolerant of desert heat and drought. It requires well-draining soil and minimal water once established. While it is generally low-maintenance, gardeners should be cautious of its fine, barbed spines, which can detach easily and are an eye irritant. Opuntia rufida is potentially invasive in some regions outside its native range, so it is important to check local regulations before planting.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Succulent
- Height: 3-4.5 feet
- Width: 3-4.5 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow, Red, Orange
- Flowering Season: Summer
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Very Low, Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Groundcover, Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Street Planting
Natural Habitat
Native to the Chihuahuan Desert in Northeastern Mexico and the Western Texas region
Other Names
Common Names: Cow Blinder, Nopal Rojizo
Scientific Names: Opuntia microdasys var. rufida, Opuntia microdasys subsp. rufida, Opuntia rufida, Opuntia lubrica, Opuntia herrfeldtii, Opuntia henfeldtii, Opuntia rufida var. tortiflora
GBIF Accepted Name: Opuntia rufida Engelm.