(Photograph: Sebastian Santecchia)
Introduction
Opuntia sulphurea is a diverse species from Bolivia and northern Argentina.
The Details
O. sulphurea grows at various altitudes over a large area; you can find it at 700 m or 3500 m. In this way it reminds me of some of the American opuntias that grow in the grasslands of Oklahoma and also in the high plains of New Mexico. No doubt the plants from higher elevations are nicely cold hardy.
Often O. sulphurea spreads out from several branches; it almost reminds me of a ground hugging vine. But, sometimes, the plant makes a multi-branched clump. The spines are stout and uniquely twisted, and the flowers a pure yellow or a light yellow-orange. Some plants have beautiful flowers, large and canary yellow. Flowers can fade to salmon. It is an easy plant to grow in the garden or in a pot (larger is better), but it is not commonly found in the USA.
O. sulphurea is purportedly an indicator of overgrazing in South America, much the way various opuntiads in the USA are signs of overgrazed pastures.
Additional Reading: Opuntia Sulphurea Overgrazing
Hi Joe,
I am very much enjoying looking and reading through your website. I’m working (at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services) on a project to combat the cactus moth (C. cactorum) which is an invasive species that threatens Opuntia cacti in the U.S., and should it continue spreading westward, Mexico. I’m trying to develop contacts, especially in the southwestern U.S. to assist with our work. If possible, please let me know if there are cactus experts, or knowledgable enthusiasts, who you think might be interested in helping to prevent the spread of an invasive, cactus-destroying pest.
Thank you,
George Fox
Hi George,
Thanks for your note. I’ve been thinking about your question; I don’t have a good answer. I’ll ask our editors and see if they are interested.
Joe
Thank you for responding to my note Joe. If anyone should express interest in contacting me, please feel free to share my email with them.
cheers,
George