Named for its broad, flat leaf pads, Beavertail Pricklypear (Opuntia basilaris) is a medium sized cactus that’s known for its vibrant magenta flowers. While the pads do not have the long spines of other cactus species, they do have small barbs that can be painful when touched. Beavertail Pricklypear blooms profusely in spring and early summer. The bright flowers attract pollinators and provide visual interest in a xeric landscape.
This succulent is native to the Southwestern desert regions of the US. It also grows in Mexico where it is called Nopal. Indigenous peoples consumed the fruit, leaf pad buds, and seeds. Beavertail Pricklypear requires minimal supplemental irrigation. Plant in full sun in sandy, well-draining soil. This cactus grows in clusters that can spread up to 6 ft wide. The pads can shrivel in the summer but will plump up during the winter rainy season. Dead pads can be removed, otherwise little maintenance is needed.