Beavertail Cactus

Beavertail cactus is a small prickly pear variety that has cactus pads shaped like beavertails.

The silvery green to purple hue adds interesting color to a desert-themed garden all year round.

But what many would probably say is their favorite thing about keeping Beavertail cactus is its gorgeous, bright pink flowers that put on quite a display from fall to spring.

Botanical name: Opuntia basilaris

Other names: Beavertail prickly pear

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Beavertail prickly pear is part of the opuntia family, so it grows round segmented cactus pads. It slowly reaches about 3 feet in height and 5 feet in width overall.

The 2 foot long pads are more narrow and oval on one side, and broader and rounder on the opposite side, thus earning the nickname of Beavertail cactus.

Unique silvery green to purple color.

The Beavertail cactus does not have long spines, but it does have numerous tiny hooked sharp spines called glochids found on areoles.

Very showy, large pink flowers when in bloom. They are followed by smooth, round dark-colored fruits.

Beavertail prickly pear makes quite a spectacle when in bloom because of its large, bright pink flowers and the number of flowers that bloom at once.

Stays low to the ground. A good candidate for planting towards the front or middle of the yard while providing vertical interest, such as desert trees or columnar cacti, toward the back.

Allow room for the Beavertail cactus to spread. The more segmented pads, the more flowers it will grow, allowing for a long blooming season.

Simply detach any prickly pear pads to control spread and/or to propagate the cactus.

Beavertail cactus has tolerance for a wide range of temperatures, withstanding cold temperatures down to 10 degrees and hot temperatures in the triple digits.

Beavertail cactus is from the desert regions of the Southwest in USA and from Northwestern Mexico.

Caring for the Beavertail cactus is easy and is similar to caring for the typical cactus. The main issue is overwatering.

Soil: Loose, well-draining soil that is lightly fertile.

Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to 10 degrees. Does well in the heat.

Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade

Pests: Minimal pests that include mealybugs and scales.

To remove mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or apply rubbing alcohol directly to the area of infestation using a cotton swab.

To remove scales, pick them off or use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Horticultural oil will kill both crawlers and adults with direct contact. Insecticidal soap is better used to target only the crawlers.

Whenever using any kind of pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.

Fungal diseases from root rot, dry rot, and harsh weather conditions.

Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially an the bottom of the cactus)

Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin

Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring

Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring

Remove Beavertail cactus pads with caution, never getting into direct contact with the plant. We recommend using tongs and thick fabric or newspaper.

Allow the pads to dry for a few days, and then plant into well-draining soil.

How much does Beavertail Cactus cost?

At our nursery, Beavertail cactus costs $15 for a 1-gallon container, $45 for a 5-gallon container, and $120 for a 15-gallon container.

Prices are subject to change. Please get in touch with us for the most up-to-date pricing information. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.

Is Beavertail prickly pear edible?

The Beavertail prickly pear fruits are edible and without spines. However, they are dry and hard unlike the common prickly pear fruit called tuna.

Why is my Beavertail cactus drooping?

If it is drooping slightly and has a shriveled appearance, it is likely underwatered. If it is completely bent over, it may be overwatered.

If it appears to be stretching toward its light source, it is not getting enough light.

Does Beavertail cactus bloom?

Yes, you will see very showy, large pink flowers when in bloom.