Opuntia engelmannii - Engelmann's Prickly Pear, Apple cactus

Opuntia engelmannii

Engelmann's Prickly Pear is an evergreen shrub-like cactus with thick, flattened, oval, green-gray pads typically covered with golden glochids and whitish tan 1 inch spines. In spring to early summer beautiful 2-3 inch wide, rose-shaped yellow to orangey-red flowers appear that are attractive to pollinators. (see photos) Pollinated flowers give way to large, red, apple-like edible fruits, hence; the common name Apple cactus. These juicy fruits were critically important for all indigenous peoples, and are loved equally by all forms of wildlife. Although its distribution is centered in Arizona, many subspecies exist in all surrounding Southwest states & Texas,

Exposure Full sun

Grows to 3-5 ft. high x 3-6 ft. wide

Hardiness Zone 7-11

PLANT VARIATIONS

Please note that no two plants are exactly the same, that’s what makes them so unique! There may be some slight variations in height, width, amount of leaves, etc. We do our best to ensure your plants are consistent and keep our listings updated. As these are live plants, they change frequently. 

SPECIAL REQUESTS

We have the ability to procure hundreds of varieties of plants from 2 inches to 5 gallons. If you do not see what you are looking for, please send us a message and we will see how we can assist you! Contact us

DOMESTIC USA SHIPPING

Our horticulture experts will determine if the plant needs to be shipped in soil, based on the particular species, size, and your hardiness zone. In general, agaves, cacti, and succulents will be shipped without soil, called “bare root.” (see below) We will find the best freight carrier to your address. While our top priority is a healthy, happy plant delivery, unfortunately, we have no control over how carriers handle our packages, nor where they are dropped off.

INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING

All plants shipped beyond the USA mainland, including Alaska and Puerto Rico, will be shipped “bare root.” (see below) All plants shipped internationally, including Puerto Rico, require a Phytosanitary Certificate from the US Department of Agriculture.

Add the Phytosanitary certificate to your cart

Please check with your local customs department to see if you need any additional certifications, such as import permits. Note: while we have extensive experience and a track record of successful international plant shipments, we are unable to guarantee the plants' condition upon arrival.

BARE ROOT SHIPPING

This process simplifies shipping by dramatically decreasing the package weight, which keeps the cost of shipping as low as possible.