Opuntia basilaris
The Opuntia basilaris is indigenous to Arizona (USA), southern Utah (USA), southern Nevada (USA), southern California (USA) and Mexico. It is typically found growing in arid plains and valleys within sandy or rocky soils. Pads take on an oval to roundish shape. This species produces a beautiful, blue, greyish-green and purple epidermis. Its multicolored pads is a result of the presence of betacyanins pigments. The pads coloration tend to vary with changing temperatures. Flowers bloom from spring to early summer. Drought tolerant. Suitable for rockeries and xeriscaping. Incredibly hardy (USDA hardiness zone 4).
Synonyms:
Opuntia basilaris var. albiflora Walton
Opuntia basilaris var. heilii S.L.Welsh & Neese
Opuntia basilaris var. longiareolata (Clover & Jotter) L.D.Benson
Opuntia longiareolata Clover & Jotter
Opuntia basilaris var. ramosa Parish
Opuntia basilaris var. whitneyana (E.M.Baxter) W.T.Marshall & T.M.Bock
Opuntia basilaris subs. whitneyana (E.M.Baxter) Munz
Corporate Clients (The King hangs hard)
Movies:
RoboCop (1987)
RoboCop 2 (1990)
Hot Pursuit (2015)
Television:
USA Network's Queen of the South (2019)
Botanical Gardens:
New York Botanical Gardens
Oklahoma City Zoo/Botanical Gardens
Mercer Arboretum in Houston, Texas
Meijer Gardens in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Zoos:
Houston, TX Zoo
San Antonio, TX Zoo
Other Clientele:
Houston, TX Rodeo
The Cactus King's cacti and succulents have gone international! If you ever find yourself in China with a little spare time, head to the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom. It is the largest Aquarium in the world (no big deal, pun definitely intended).
The Cactus King's plants are also featured in the Chimelong Ocean Kingdom's partner parks. These include their water park, amusement park, crocodile park and botanical gardens.