Opuntia 'Santa Rita' (Purple Prickly Pear) – Color-Shifting Desert Cactus
$9.99
Out of stock
Opuntia santa-rita, commonly known as the Santa Rita Prickly Pear, is a striking desert cactus celebrated for its dramatic, color-changing pads and vibrant spring blooms. Its flat, fleshy pads shift from soft blue-gray in warm months to rich violet-purple in winter or under drought stress. Bright yellow flowers appear in late spring, and small edible purple fruits attract birds, adding seasonal interest to xeric landscapes. Cold- and drought-tolerant, this cactus is perfect for desert gardens, natural barriers, and architectural accents.
Common Name: Santa Rita Prickly Pear, Purple Prickly Pear, Violet Prickly Pear, Opuntia Violet
Botanical Name: Opuntia santa-rita
Plant Care:
Light: Full sun (6+ hours) to maintain vivid purple coloration and encourage blooming
Soil: Well-draining sandy or gravelly soil
Water: Extremely drought-tolerant; water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely
Temperature: Hardy to approximately 10–15°F (-12 to -9°C); USDA zones 7–11
Growth Rate: Moderate
Habit: Upright, bushy shrub
Mature Size: 4–8 feet tall; 5–10 feet wide
⚠️ Handle with care: Pads have fine glochids that can irritate skin. Use gloves or tongs.
Perfect For:
Xeriscape and low-water gardens
Rock gardens and desert landscapes
Architectural accent or natural barrier plantings
Pollinator-friendly gardens
Colorful, dramatic desert garden focal points