Opuntia violacea - Purple prickly pear

Opuntia violacea (syn. O. santa-rita) - Purple prickly pear

Purple Prickly Pear is one of the most popular types of Prickly Pear used in the Southwest because of its durability and beauty. These have a naturally wide distribution with several areas of the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts but they are only common in some places. The purple color on the pads will become more pronounced due to drought stress or during periods of cold weather. Pads are typically gray-green, with some purple hues and can have a few long spines but all pads have numerous brown to black glochids.

Exposure Full to part sun

Grows to 2-4 feet high and 2-5 feet wide

Hardiness Zones 7-11

PLANT VARIATIONS

Please note that no two plants are exactly the same, that’s what makes them so unique! There may be some slight variations in height, width, amount of leaves, etc. We do our best to ensure your plants are consistent and keep our listings updated. As these are live plants, they change frequently. 

SPECIAL REQUESTS

We have the ability to procure hundreds of varieties of plants from 2 inches to 5 gallons. If you do not see what you are looking for, please send us a message and we will see how we can assist you! Contact us

DOMESTIC USA SHIPPING

Our horticulture experts will determine if the plant needs to be shipped in soil, based on the particular species, size, and your hardiness zone. In general, agaves, cacti, and succulents will be shipped without soil, called “bare root.” (see below) We will find the best freight carrier to your address. While our top priority is a healthy, happy plant delivery, unfortunately, we have no control over how carriers handle our packages, nor where they are dropped off.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING

All plants shipped beyond the USA mainland, including Alaska and Puerto Rico, will be shipped “bare root.” (see below) All plants shipped internationally, including Puerto Rico, require a Phytosanitary Certificate from the US Department of Agriculture.

Add the Phytosanitary certificate to your cart

Please check with your local customs department to see if you need any additional certifications, such as import permits. Note: while we have extensive experience and a track record of successful international plant shipments, we are unable to guarantee the plants' condition upon arrival.

BARE ROOT SHIPPING

This process simplifies shipping by dramatically decreasing the package weight, which keeps the cost of shipping as low as possible.