Opuntia chlorotica (Pancake Cactus)

Photographs

My photos:

This plant was photographed at Joshua Tree in March.

More photos:

click photo to enlarge

Plant Information

Cactaceae

In the garden:

an erect, tree-like succulent, which grows up to a height of 7 feet and which is almost as broad as tall. It has a stout trunk, with ascending branches. It’s joints are circular, yellow-green, and flat (like a pancake). It’s spines are yellow, up to 2 inches in length, and downward pointing. It blooms in May and June with yellow flowers. Once established, it will require little or no water. It serves best as a specimen plant in a desert or rock garden.

In the wild:

Usually found on dry rocky walls, between 3000 and 5500 feet.

Ethnobotany:

Field Trips
Anza Borrego Caspers Holy Jim Canyon Idyllwild
Joshua Tree Mt Palomar Rancho Santa Ana Torrey Pines

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