Western Prickly Pear (Opuntia Trichophora) is a perennial cactus in the Cactaceae family with easy care difficulty. It requires drought-tolerant watering and full sun light in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. This plant is toxic to cats and dogs — keep it out of reach of pets.

Opuntia trichophora is a low-growing prickly pear cactus with a sprawling habit, native to the western United States and northern Mexico.

Western Prickly Pear

Western Prickly Pear

Opuntia Trichophora

Opuntia trichophora is a low-growing prickly pear cactus with a sprawling habit, native to the western United States and northern Mexico.

Quick Facts

Type
cactus
Lifecycle
perennial
Care Difficulty
Easy
Water Needs
drought-tolerant
Light
Full Sun
Hardiness Zones
5-9

Safety

⚠️
Not Pet Safe
⚠️
Not Child Safe
Non-Toxic

Growing Conditions

Soil Types:sandy, rocky, loamy
Indoor:No
Outdoor:Yes
Garden Use:groundcover, ornamental, erosion control

Care Calendar

Monthly care tasks for Western Prickly Pear

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

Western Prickly Pear
Western Prickly Pear detail

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Taxonomy

Family:Cactaceae
Genus:Opuntia