Beavertail Cactus (Opuntia Basilaris) is a perennial cactus in the Cactaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires drought-tolerant watering and full sun or partial shade light in USDA hardiness zones 8-11. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets. It can be grown indoors.

Opuntia basilaris is a medium to small-sized prickly pear cactus with broad, flat pads and vibrant magenta to pink flowers.

Beavertail Cactus

Beavertail Cactus

Opuntia Basilaris

Opuntia basilaris is a medium to small-sized prickly pear cactus with broad, flat pads and vibrant magenta to pink flowers.

Quick Facts

Type
cactus
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
drought-tolerant
Light
Full Sun, Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
8-11

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, rocky, gravelly
Indoor:Yes
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:groundcover, ornamental, drought-tolerant landscaping

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Beavertail Cactus

Jan
Prune
Feb
Fertilize
Mar
Repot
Apr
Water+
May
...
Jun
...
Jul
...
Aug
...
Sep
...
Oct
...
Nov
...
Dec
...

Expert Care Tips

Pro tips from botanists and plant experts

Watering Tip

Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1 inch deep. Water only when the top layer feels dry to prevent overwatering.

Humidity Trick

Group plants together to create...

Growth Hack

Rotate your plant every...

Photo Gallery10+ photos

Beavertail Cactus
Beavertail Cactus detail

View leaf details, flowers, seeds & more in the app

Taxonomy

Family:Cactaceae
Genus:Opuntia