Opuntia engelmannii var. cyclodes - Prickly Pear

The Opuntia cyclodes (formerly Opuntia engelmannii var. cyclodes) is a variety of prickly pear cactus whose robust appearance is in line with its exceptional resistance to cold and snow. This plant forms a bush with a tentacle-like appearance, wider than it is tall, composed of thick and rounded "paddles" armed with long sharp yellow prickles. In late spring, they are adorned with beautiful yellow flowers, which produce edible but not very tasty round and violet fruits. Hardy prickly pears are cultivated outdoors, in open ground and away from high traffic areas, allowing them to freely express their spirit, that of the desert landscapes of North America.

The Opuntia cyclodes, a close relative of the Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus indica), is a succulent plant devoid of true leaves from the cactus family. This botanical species is native to the arid regions of New Mexico and northern Texas. An adult specimen will reach about 90 cm (35in) in height and spread laterally for at least 1.50 m (5ft). Its growth is quite fast producing 1 or 2 new paddles per year from spring to autumn. The vegetation is composed of paddles or cladodes that are stacked on top of each other, they are flat, fleshy, thick, rounded in shape, and measure up to 20 cm (8in) long. The plant tolerates wind and the weight of snow well. The green surface of the paddles is adorned with large bright yellow prickles, which turn straw-colored over time, as well as tiny but formidable prickles called glochides, gathered in small round tufts, very dangerous when handled. Flowering occurs in June-July, earlier or later depending on the region. Several flowers appear on the periphery of the paddles, shaped like rounded cups, they are composed of petals with a fine and slightly translucent texture, lemon yellow color. They give way to small globose fruits measuring 2.5 to 3 cm (1in) in diameter, heavily covered in glochides, and ripening to a violet-purple color. While they are edible, they are less tasty than those of the Prickly Pear.

Cultivable in almost all regions, this amazing cactus is hardy down to -25°C without protection, but in perfectly well-drained, rocky, stony, or sandy soil. It naturally structures exotic or contemporary landscapes, in a large rock garden, on an arid slope, or at the edges of a dry garden. It can also be used to reinforce a defensive hedge. It will find its place among hardy agaves, Nolinas, and tree-like Euphorbias. Pair it with relatively hardy candle cacti, Cleistocactus strausii or Cylindropuntia imbricata. It should be kept away from high traffic areas and children due to its formidable spines.