Opuntia Santa-Rita

Common Names: Santa Rita Prickly Pear, Purple Prickly Pear, Violet Prickly Pear

Appearance

Features round, flat pads that turn a striking purple or violet hue, especially in cooler temperatures or full sun.

Pads are covered in small, golden spines (glochids) that can easily detach and cause skin irritation.

Can grow up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall and wide, forming a dense, shrubby cactus.

Care & Growing Conditions

Light: Prefers full sun; intense sunlight enhances the purple coloration.

Soil: Well-draining, sandy, or cactus mix soil.

Watering: Drought-tolerant; allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.

Temperature: Thrives in USDA zones 8-11; can tolerate light frost but should be protected from prolonged freezing temperatures below 20°F (-7°C).

Humidity: Prefers dry conditions and is highly resistant to drought.

Flower

Produces bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers in spring and early summer.

Flowers emerge along the edges of the pads, often followed by reddish-purple edible fruits.

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets, but the glochids (tiny spines) can cause irritation if touched.

Special Notes

Purple Coloration: The unique purple color of Opuntia santa-rita is a result of the plant’s stress response to sunlight and cold temperatures. While some may see it as a sign of stress, it is a natural adaptation that makes the plant stand out in gardens.

Historical Uses: Like other prickly pear species, Opuntia santa-rita has been used by Indigenous peoples for both food and medicinal purposes. The pads and fruit have been traditionally used to treat stomach ailments, wounds, and infections.