Botanical Name: Opuntia Snow ‘Blue Jacket’
Common Name: Blue Jacket Prickly Pear
Opuntia Snow ‘Blue Jacket’ is an eye‑catching prickly pear cactus prized for its silvery‑blue to bluish‑green pads that hold color even in bright sun. This cultivar combines cold tolerance with striking form, making it a standout in rock gardens, containers, or xeriscape landscapes. Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico through its wild relatives, it typically reaches a mature size of 2–4 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide under optimal conditions, forming a compact yet architectural clumping habit. SHIPPED AS A YOUNG BARE ROOT SPECIMEN.
Care and Cultivation:
Thrives in full sun to bright light
Water sparingly; allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
Use a fast‑draining cactus or succulent soil mix
Excellent for xeriscapes, desert gardens, or container displays
Frost Tolerance and Cold Hardiness:
Well-suited to USDA Zones 8–11
Tolerates brief frost down to around 20°F (‑6°C) once established
Extended freezes below 20°F (‑6°C) may damage pads and growth tips
Provide protection or move to shelter when severe cold is forecast
Winter Dormancy and Health:
Growth slows or pauses during winter dormancy
Significantly reduce watering in cool months
Pads may look slightly wrinkled or dull in winter; this is normal and not a sign of poor health
Note: Handle with care—pads have small spines and glochids that can be irritating
Botanical Name: Opuntia Snow ‘Blue Jacket’
Common Name: Blue Jacket Prickly Pear
Opuntia Snow ‘Blue Jacket’ is an eye‑catching prickly pear cactus prized for its silvery‑blue to bluish‑green pads that hold color even in bright sun. This cultivar combines cold tolerance with striking form, making it a standout in rock gardens, containers, or xeriscape landscapes. Native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico through its wild relatives, it typically reaches a mature size of 2–4 feet tall and 3–5 feet wide under optimal conditions, forming a compact yet architectural clumping habit. SHIPPED AS A YOUNG BARE ROOT SPECIMEN.
Care and Cultivation:
Thrives in full sun to bright light
Water sparingly; allow soil to dry out completely between waterings
Use a fast‑draining cactus or succulent soil mix
Excellent for xeriscapes, desert gardens, or container displays
Frost Tolerance and Cold Hardiness:
Well-suited to USDA Zones 8–11
Tolerates brief frost down to around 20°F (‑6°C) once established
Extended freezes below 20°F (‑6°C) may damage pads and growth tips
Provide protection or move to shelter when severe cold is forecast
Winter Dormancy and Health:
Growth slows or pauses during winter dormancy
Significantly reduce watering in cool months
Pads may look slightly wrinkled or dull in winter; this is normal and not a sign of poor health
Note: Handle with care—pads have small spines and glochids that can be irritating