Santa Rita Purple Prickly Pear – Opuntia ‘Santa Rita’ Live Cactus Pads | 3 Pad Bundle | Vibrant Purple Color Cold & Heat Tolerant | Striking Landscape Plant | Easy to Root

Add bold desert color to your garden with Opuntia ‘Santa Rita’, commonly known as the Purple Prickly Pear. This stunning variety is prized for its rich purple pads, which intensify in color during cooler weather and bright sun exposure.

This listing includes three vibrant pads measuring approximately 4–5 inches tall. Pads are shipped non-rooted but establish quickly and easily in well-draining soil. Once planted, this fast-growing cactus begins multiplying and forming new pads with minimal care.

Ideal for xeriscaping, rock gardens, desert-themed landscapes, or container growing, Santa Rita thrives in sunny locations and is highly drought tolerant once established.

Please note: While the pads may appear nearly spineless, they contain fine hair-like spines (glochids). Always handle with gloves and keep away from pets and children.

You will receive pads similar in size and color intensity to those shown in the listing photos.

You will receive:
✔️ 3 live Opuntia ‘Santa Rita’ pads
✔️ Size: approximately 4–5 inches
✔️ Healthy, viable cuttings
✔️ Ready to root
✔️ Secure packaging for safe arrival

🌼 Growing Information

Common Name: Santa Rita Purple Prickly Pear
Botanical Name: Opuntia ‘Santa Rita’
Plant Type: Cold tolerant cactus
Growth Stage: Pad cuttings
Sun Requirements: Full sun for best purple color (tolerates light shade)
Soil: Very well-draining cactus or sandy soil
Watering: Low; water every 7–10 days once established
Mature Height: 4–6 feet tall, spreading habit
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast in warm climates
USDA Zones: 8–11 (protect below 25°F for extended periods)
Container Friendly: Yes

💡 Care Tip: Plant pads upright in fast-draining soil and wait about one week before watering. For the richest purple coloration, provide full sun and mild seasonal stress. Always use gloves when handling due to fine glochids.