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Black-Spine Prickly Pear
Scientific Name: Opuntia macrocentra Engelm.
Synonym: Opuntia violacea, Opuntia violacea var. macrocentra, Opuntia violacea var. castetteri
Family: Cactaceae

Show Larger Picture Opuntia macrocentra at the Tucson Botanical Garden

Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 10-13,18-21 USDA: 8b-11 Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 10°F (-12°C) or less Heat Tolerance: Excellent heat resistance. Provide some water in summer in Phoenix Sun Exposure: Full sun Origin: USA (Texas, New Mexico, eastern Arizona), northern Mexico Growth Habits: Shrubby, spiny, cactus, up to 4 feet tall (1.2 m) Watering Needs: No to little water Propagation: Cuttings

Blooming Habits:
The Opuntia macrocentra has yellow flowers with red centers, in late spring or early summer. The flowers measure 2 to 3 inches in diameter (5-7 cm). They are followed by red to purple fruit