Opuntia monacantha ‘Maverick’ (Maverick Prickly Pear)

Botanical Name: Opuntia monacantha ‘Maverick’
Common Names: Maverick Prickly Pear, Southern Prickly Pear

Opuntia monacantha ‘Maverick’ is a vigorous, fast-growing prickly pear cactus cultivar derived from parent species native to Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. It features tall, upright pads with sharp spines and produces bright yellow flowers in summer, followed by edible red fruits. Its bold, architectural form makes it ideal for xeriscape gardens, large containers, and landscape accents. Mature plants can reach 10–15 feet tall and 6–10 feet wide in the ground, while container-grown specimens remain smaller.

Care and Cultivation:

• Prefers full sun

• Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between waterings

• Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent soil mix

• Excellent for containers, rock gardens, and desert landscapes

Frost Tolerance and Cold Hardiness:

• Best suited for USDA Zones 9–11

• Can tolerate brief cold down to about 25°F (-4°C) when dry

• Protect from prolonged freezing and excess winter moisture

• Ideal growing temperatures: 65–95°F (18–35°C)

Winter Dormancy and Health:

• Growth slows during cooler months

• Reduce watering significantly in winter

• Maintain bright light for healthy pad development and flower production

Notes:

• Fast-growing, upright pads create bold architectural interest

• Produces yellow flowers and edible red fruits

• Drought-tolerant once established

• Excellent for large containers and xeriscape landscapes