Opuntia rufida
Light: Full sun to light shade; afternoon shade can reduce scorching in Phoenix’s hottest exposures. Acclimate gradually to intense sun.
Water: Very low water once established. During prolonged summer drought, water deeply about every 3–4 weeks only if the soil has dried completely. Keep mostly dry in winter.
Soil: Very well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil. Use raised planting areas or cactus mix where drainage is poor.
Mature size: Typically 3–6 feet tall and 4–6 feet wide; older plants may spread wider.
Bloom: Spring to early summer; established plants bloom annually when conditions are favorable.
Evergreen / deciduous: Evergreen.
Growth rate: Slow to moderate, depending on warmth and available moisture.