Opuntia basilaris
Opuntia basilaris · Cactaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around opuntia basilaris and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Beavertail Cactus, Opuntia basilaris
- Family
- Cactaceae
- Type
- Succulent, Cactus
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-July), pink-magenta flowers
- Mature size
- 30 to 60 cm in height × 45 to 90 cm in spread
- Growth
- Moderate to slow
- Hardiness
- -7 to -10°C depending on origin
- Origin
- Deserts of the southwestern United States and Mexico
- Soil
- Very well-draining, mineral, poor in organic matter
Care
Watering
Water moderately during the growing season (May-September), only every 10 to 14 days if the soil is completely dry. In autumn and winter, drastically reduce watering to once a month or less. This plant tolerates drought very well: too dry is better than too wet, which causes root rot.
Light exposure
Place your Opuntia basilaris in full sun, with a minimum of 6 hours of direct daily sunlight. The brighter the exposure, the more intense the flower color will be. In very hot climates, light afternoon shade can be beneficial, but it must remain well-lit.
Soil and substrate
Use a very well-draining substrate made of cactus potting soil or a mix of light potting soil + sand + perlite or pumice. Opuntia dislikes stagnant moisture: a pot with drainage holes is essential. Avoid overly rich potting soils or those that retain water.
Fertilizer
Fertilize lightly during the growing season (April to August) with a cactus or succulent fertilizer, diluted to a weak concentration, every 4 to 6 weeks. Choose a low-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage blooming. Do not fertilize from September to March.
Pruning and cleaning
Opuntia basilaris does not require regular pruning. Simply remove damaged, dead, or infested segments, or those growing in a disorderly manner. Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming. Wear thick gloves: the glochides (tiny fine spines) are very irritating.
Diseases and pests
Watch out for mealybugs and spider mites, especially indoors. Root and base rot is the main threat if there is excess moisture or poor drainage. Ensure good air circulation and keep watering to a minimum. In case of infestation, isolate the plant and treat with methods suitable for succulents.
Did you know?
Opuntia basilaris is also called 'Beavertail Cactus' because its flat segments resemble a beaver's flat tail. Native to the deserts of the southwestern United States, this species was traditionally used by Native American peoples for its hardiness and striking flowers. Its magnificent pink-magenta flowers attract hummingbirds and bees in its natural habitat, making it a valuable plant for desert ecosystems.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring, once all risk of frost has gone. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from April to June.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Hedgehog pearOpuntia polyacantha
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- Ferocactus wislizeniFerocactus wislizeni
- Cylindropuntia leptocaulisCylindropuntia leptocaulis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.