Beavertail Cactus
opuntia basilaris
Also known as: ["Beavertail Prickly Pear","Beavertail Cactus"]
Overview
A low-growing, spineless cactus with flat, fleshy pads and pinkish-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Opuntia |
| Botanical Name: | Opuntia basilaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or sunny, dry areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–48°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; must avoid water retention.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; annually or when pads become overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove only dead or problematic pads.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates intense light but benefits from some afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching in midday summer sun; ideal for outdoor, sunny locations.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; provide shade during peak summer heat; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure fast drainage; avoid peat-heavy mixes; use inorganic amendments.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–90°F/18–32°C); thrives in arid, hot climates; tolerates mild frosts but not prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; avoid overwatering in cold; provide shade in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months with balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; use a balanced cactus fertilizer; less is more for Opuntia.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings ( pads ); division of offsets.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy pad.
- Let callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly.
- Provide warmth and light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm, bright indirect light; high humidity (e.g., propagation dome) for initial rooting.
Medium
Well-draining mix (e.g., cactus soil with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Not necessary but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), well-draining medium, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Let cut end callus before planting; use warm, bright conditions; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut pads cleanly with a sharp tool; allow cut surfaces to callus before handling.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged pads to improve appearance and health.
Tools
Sharp knife or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Wear gloves; use clean tools; cut cleanly; let pads callus.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it is not too deep.
Method
Use well-draining cactus soil; ensure pot has drainage holes; handle pads carefully to avoid injury.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the pot or every 3–4 years; avoid frequent repotting.
Checklist
Use cactus soil; ensure drainage; handle pads gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base, avoiding the pads; ensure water penetrates the root zone; allow excess to drain away completely; water early in the morning or late evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, especially in winter; allow soil to dry completely between waterings; increase frequency slightly in summer heat but avoid overwatering.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting mix; ensure no organic matter holds excess moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or purple discoloration in cold; wilting or sunburn spots in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stops growth; pads may become soft and discolored; susceptible to rot if soil remains wet in cold.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; ensure soil is dry; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Pads may shrivel or develop sunburn spots; growth may slow if watered improperly.
Solution: Provide some afternoon shade; water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use cactus fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a low-nitrogen cactus fertilizer; dilute to half strength; apply sparingly in spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Opuntia basilaris. The spines and glochids can cause significant irritation and injury to the delicate tissues of the mouth, throat, and digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Opuntia basilaris by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to oxalic acid content. The spines and glochids pose a significant risk of mechanical injury to the mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOpuntia basilaris, commonly known as beavertail prickly pear, contains oxalic acid and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The spines and glochids (small barbed hairs) can cause mechanical injury and irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Opuntia basilaris?
A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, typically every 2-4 weeks depending on climate.
Q: Can Opuntia basilaris be grown indoors?
A: It can be grown indoors in bright, direct sunlight, but it thrives best outdoors in full sun.
Q: Does Opuntia basilaris produce edible fruits?
A: Yes, it produces edible, purple-red fruits called 'tuna' that are sweet and used in jams and beverages.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–4 weeks during growi |
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