Opuntia violacea ‘Santa Rita’ – Purple Prickly Pear 2 Live Pad Cuttings | 6–9 Inches | Cold Hardy Cactus Purple Santa Rita | Yellow Blooming Opuntia | Zone 7–10

Add bold desert color to your garden with Opuntia violacea ‘Santa Rita’, also known as Purple Santa Rita Prickly Pear. This hardy variety features stunning blue-purple to magenta pads that deepen in color with sun exposure and cooler temperatures.

This listing includes 2 large live pad cuttings (6–9 inches each), shipped without roots and ready to plant. Once established, plants produce large bright yellow flowers in spring, followed by attractive purple edible fruit.

These hardy cacti tolerate frost and light snow and thrive in sandy, well-draining soil. Ideal for xeriscape landscapes, rock gardens, or large containers.

You will receive:
✔️ 2 live Opuntia violacea ‘Santa Rita’ pad cuttings
✔️ Size: approximately 6–9 inches each
✔️ Unrooted cuttings ready to plant
✔️ Purple pad variety with yellow blooms
✔️ Secure packaging for safe arrival

🌼 Growing Information

Common Name: Purple Santa Rita Prickly Pear
Botanical Name: Opuntia violacea var. santa-rita
Plant Type: Perennial cactus
Growth Stage: Unrooted pad cuttings
Sun Requirements: Full sun
Soil: Very well-draining sandy or rocky soil
Watering: Low; allow soil to dry between watering
Mature Size: 3–5 feet tall and wide
Flowering Time: Spring (April–May)
Fruit: Purple-red edible fruit
USDA Zones: 7–10
Container Friendly: Yes

💡 Care Tip: Allow the cut ends to callus for several days before planting. Place in dry, fast-draining soil and wait about one week before watering. Handle carefully due to spines and glochids.