Also known as Prickly Pear · 43 saves

Opuntia

Opuntia, the genus most gardeners know as prickly pear. We track 2 varieties; the ones most used by real gardeners.

2 varietiesZones 4–10Mostly full sun

The 2 most-saved Opuntia varieties

Track your Opuntia in Sow

Save the Opuntia you grow and get care reminders timed to your zone.

Opuntia questions

How many types of Opuntia are there?

The Sow catalog tracks 2 distinct Opuntia varieties. The most popular — ranked by 43 real gardeners — are shown first above.

What zones does Opuntia grow in?

Across its varieties, Opuntia covers USDA Zones 4–10. Individual varieties differ — each plant page lists its exact range, and Sow filters the catalog to your zone automatically.

When does Opuntia bloom?

Most Opuntia varieties bloom in late spring, early summer. Staggering early, mid, and late varieties extends the genus's season in one bed.

Which Opuntia should I choose?

Start from the most-saved varieties above — popularity across thousands of gardens is a strong signal of reliability — then filter by your zone and sun. In the Sow app you can preview any of them in a photo of your actual yard before you buy.

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