Opuntia basilaris
Family: Cactaceae​
​Common Name: beavertail cactus
Origin: Opuntia basilaris is found in the southwestern USA and northwestern Mexico – native to the Mojave, Colorado, and Sonoran deserts. It grows in arid plains and valleys at 3,000 to 5,500 feet.
Description: O. basilaris is a clumping, blue-gray cactus that develops fleshy, flat pads resembling a beaver’s tail. The beavertail cactus is low growing, not exceeding 6-12 inches, and produces purple to red flowers during the spring.
  • Interesting Features:
    • Although spineless, the beavertail cactus possess barbed bristles called glochids that can cause an allergenic reaction in contact with skin.
    • During the summer, cacti will shrivel, but will return to a plump form in the winter. 
    • ​When flowering, O. basilaris attracts a large number of native bees and is valued by pollination ecologists. 
  • Uses: The berries formed from Opuntia basilaris are called “tuna” and can be eaten along with the pads to keep blood sugar stable. Additionally, the seeds, buds, and joints have been consumed by the Cahuilla, Kumeyaay, Kawaiisu, and Tubatulabal people of southwestern America and Baja California.

Cultivation and Care:
  • Watering: Low
    • O. basilaris requires very little water when established and should not be watered in winter.
  • Soil: Tolerates a wide range of well-draining soil, but fares the best in sand or gravel (pH 6-8). Avoid humus or clay.
  • Lighting: Provide maximum sun exposure and avoid shadow for the best growth.
  • Propagation: Opuntia basilaris reproduces through woody stem cuttings or through seed. In winter, sow after the last frost in vented containers, coldframe, or unheated greenhouses.
    • Wear gloves when handling seeds to avoid exposing to diseases.
  • Cold Tolerance: 10° F, USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b.
  • Special Accommodations: The beavertail cactus is highly susceptible to root rot and should never be left in standing water. Additionally, be careful when handling, as the glochids can easily penetrate skin and cause irritation.

Sources:
  1. California Native Plant Society
  2. Gardenia
  3. Wildflower Plant Database
  4. Southwest Desert Flora
  5. Llifle Encyclopedia of Cacti
  6. Desert USA