Opuntia polyacantha ssp. hystracina BLACK SPINED FORM

Opuntia polycantha ssp. hystracina BLACK SPINED FORM is pretty self explained prickly pear having black spines. This variable species is more reliant on having dry summer months and heavy winter snow falls. Plants are cold hardy to around -30F if kept dry. Original plants came from Mesa county, CO.
 
These are second year plants in 3.5" pots.  These have magenta flowers. Plants can get 2' tall and wide. Flowers May-July. Plants have taken -22F several times and are very cold hardy. we keep these outside throughout winter unprotected on benches and have never taken any damage.
 
I do not guarantee these in a zone 5/6/7 because everyones growing conditions are different but this would be a good trial plant to grow in your cold outdoor garden. Try to plant outdoor 90 days before 1st hard freeze. 
 
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