Opuntia salmiana (Pencil Prickly Pear) – Sculptural Shrubby Cactus

Opuntia salmiana—sometimes classified under Austrocylindropuntia or Salmonopuntia—is a distinctive, shrubby cactus native to South America, including Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Unlike traditional prickly pears, it features thin, cylindrical, pencil-like stems that form an upright, branching silhouette. The blue-green stems can blush plum-purple or reddish tones in bright sun, adding striking color contrast. Delicate pale yellow to white flowers are followed by vivid scarlet-red fruits, which can root and form new plants where they fall.

Common Names:

• Pencil Prickly Pear

• Cylindrical Prickly Pear

Botanical Name: Opuntia salmiana

Plant Care:

• Light: Full sun for best growth and coloration

• Soil: Very well-draining cactus or sandy soil

• Water: Low water needs; allow soil to dry completely between waterings

• Temperature: Protect from frost; keep above 30°F (0°C)

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Habit: Upright, shrubby, branching cactus with cylindrical stems

• Mature Size: Approximately 1–6 feet tall

• Bloom: Pale yellow to white, funnel-shaped flowers; followed by bright red fruits

Perfect For:

• Xeriscape and drought-tolerant landscapes

• Sculptural and architectural plantings

• Containers in warm, frost-free climates

• Cactus and succulent collections

• Easy propagation and naturalized displays