SKU: 53918865044
types of prickly pear cactus

types of prickly pear cactus Brittle Prickly Pear

Sale price$22.82 Regular price$25.36
Save 10%

Pay in installments of $6.34 with ShopPay, AfterPay and Klarna

Shipping Estimate
USA
  • USA
  • CAN

Ships within 48 hours · Estimated delivery Jul 16 - Jul 21

Promo Codes Available:

For Your Every Summer RSVP, with Code: SUMMER15

Description

types of prickly pear cactus Brittle Prickly PearAre you on the hunt for a unique and eye catching plant to add to your collection? Look no further than the brittle prickly pear cactus or little prickly pear, also known as Opuntia fragilis or fragile cactus, a vibrant member of the Opuntia genus. This striking plant displays vibrant orange, red, or yellow green flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, making it a true showstopper in any garden. There are few flowers on each brittle

Are you on the hunt for a unique and eye-catching plant to add to your collection? Look no further than the brittle prickly pear cactus or little prickly pear, also known as Opuntia fragilis or fragile cactus, a vibrant member of the Opuntia genus. This striking plant displays vibrant orange, red, or yellow-green flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer, making it a true showstopper in any garden. There are few flowers on each brittle prickly pear, and many plants do not flower every year. 

What makes this cactus truly unique is its loose connection of pads; they're easily detached by passing animals, which helps in propagation. And get this: new pads grow out of the top of the brittle prickly pear cactus, causing it to bend over like a little green waterfall!

Hailing from North America and reaching a height of 12 inches, it is noticeably thicker than other species (24 inches) at maturity. The prickly pear cactus, which is often cylindrical or potato-shaped with spines concentrated at the upper edge, is sure to make a statement wherever it's planted.  However, it's important to note that this plant is mildly toxic for both humans and pets, so handle it with caution!  

Plus, where new pads touch the soil, roots form and grow into new colonies! Talk about self-sufficiency! So, if you want a plant that can take care of itself while adding some cute desert vibes to your home, look no further than the Brittle Prickly Pear, 'Opuntia fragilis'.  

Watering Needs 

Many cacti, like Opuntia fragilis, thrive when cared for properly by using the "soak and dry" technique. This involves giving your plant a generous watering, followed by allowing it to completely dry out before watering again.  

For potted and outdoor Opuntia, during the growing season, it's recommended to give them a deep-water soak once or twice a month when the soil is dry. Use a water meter or place your finger into the soil, and if it is dry an inch down, then you should water your plant.  Make sure that you are also using porous sandy soil, and if it is in a pot, then make sure there is a drainage hole to avoid overwatering. In rainy seasons or cold weather, it's best to withhold watering your outdoor cacti.

Light Requirements 

Opuntia fragilis prefers bright, direct sunlight and can tolerate full sun exposure for most of the day. When grown indoors or in low-light environments, the plant may not receive enough light to thrive and may become leggy or pale in color.  

If you are growing Opuntia fragilis indoors, it is important to place it in a south-facing window or under grow lights to provide it with adequate light. If growing outdoors, it can be grown in a variety of locations, including rock gardens, xeriscapes, and containers, as long as it receives enough sunlight to support healthy growth. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs 

Are you ready to take your Opuntia fragilis cacti plant game to the next level?  When it comes to choosing the right soil and fertilizer for your adorable prickly pear cacti, you need to be extra cautious and use the right kind of soil.  Moisture can be a real killer, leading to root and stem rot in no time. But fear not, my fellow green thumbs! Planet Desert has got your back with our specialized cactus potting mix that includes organic mycorrhizae, perfect for promoting healthy roots and happy plants. 

When it comes to fertilizing your cactus plant, it only needs a small amount of fertilizer applied once a year in the spring. Cacti prefer fertilizer with lower doses of NPK, with a maximum ratio of 5-10-5 that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen. 

Hardiness Zones & More 

Opuntia fragilis requires sunny, warm climates to thrive, but it can tolerate mild cold temperatures. Generally, these are hardy plants that can be grown in the garden in USDA zones 4–10, and it is a great houseplant for beginners as it will be fine if you forget to water it for a while.  

These tropical cacti tend to live for many years and grow slowly. Plant them in the spring after the weather warms up.

Be sure to add Opuntia fragilis to your collection today and elevate the beauty of your home or garden with this stunning plant. 

Shipping Notes
  • Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
  • Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
  • Delivery to the USA:
  1. Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
  • If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
  • We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
  • Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
  • To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
  • Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy
SKU: 53918865044

Discover Niche Categories That Outsell types of prickly pear cactus

Top-Converting Item to Boost Your Average Order

4.2 ★★★★★
Based on 18 reviews
Sort
Highest Rating
Newest First
Oldest First
Product Reviews
A
Verified Purchase
Amber Castillo
Chelsea, US
★★★★★ 5
Love these socks!
Fit Type: Classic Fit, Color: Black, Size: Large
They are a little on the thin side, but that is how I like them. Thin, comfortable, breathable, but still sturdy. They work great for me and I have bought them several times for me and my kids over the years.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on May 9, 2024
J
Verified Purchase
Jay Zuhosky
Lowell, US
★★★★★ 4
Thin
Fit Type: Classic Fit, Color: Gray Assorted, Size: Medium
I bought these thinking they would be slightly thicker material. They are thin but don't make my feet sweat working outside in the heat while wearing them during my work shift. They are comfortable and stay in place so I don't have to keep fishing for them inside my shoe to move them up a bit. The one thing I wish they had was the support band in the middle of the foot.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2023
D
Verified Purchase
dave
Los Angeles, US
★★★★★ 5
Super comfortable
Fit Type: Classic Fit, Color: Black, Size: Large
Love these socks. They are very soft fabric but also heavy so they are very durable. And the price is far cheaper than any of my local stores.
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on March 26, 2025
J
Verified Purchase
Janna Leek
Grantham, US
★★★★★ 5
Great product
Fit Type: Classic Fit, Color: Black, Size: Large
These are my favorite socks I’ve ever purchased for no-show socks
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on October 9, 2025
G
Verified Purchase
Glen Wright
Battle Creek, US
★★★★★ 5
Price
Fit Type: Classic Fit, Color: White, Size: Large
Good price
WAS THIS REVIEW HELPFUL?YesReportShare
Reviewed in the United States on February 4, 2026

recommand products