Opuntia decumbens (Decumbent Prickly Pear)
Low-Growing Colorful Cactus
$9.99
Out of stock
Opuntia decumbens is a striking, low-growing succulent in the prickly pear family, celebrated for its creeping, mat-forming habit and eye-catching purple-red hues that intensify under bright sun or temperature stress. This versatile cactus is a showstopper in any desert-inspired garden or container, bringing bold color, sculptural texture, and effortless resilience to your landscape.
Common Name: Decumbent Prickly Pear
Botanical Name: Opuntia decumbens
Physical Characteristics
Growth Habit: Decumbent, prostrate growth with trailing branches and slightly raised tips; reaches 8–20 inches tall
Pads (Cladodes): Flattened, oval to elliptical green pads up to 8 inches long; often show purple or reddish coloration around the areoles
Spines & Glochids: Yellowish-brown glochids with 1–3 short yellow-white spines (sometimes absent)
Flowers: Bright yellow spring blooms, occasionally with reddish tones
Fruit: Reddish-purple, spherical to pear-shaped, edible fruits about 1 inch long
Plant Care
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Highly drought-tolerant; water infrequently and allow soil to dry completely between waterings
Soil: Extremely well-draining, sandy or gritty cactus mix
Hardiness: Suitable for warm climates; protect from prolonged frost
Perfect For
Xeriscapes and low-water landscapes
Groundcover-style cactus plantings
Rock gardens and slopes
Containers in bright, sunny locations
Cactus and prickly pear collectors