Opuntia violacea (Purple Santa Rita Cactus)

Opuntia violacea, commonly known as the Purple Santa Rita Cactus, is a stunning desert plant with paddle-like, purple and green colored pads. This xerophytic cactus species is native to the southwestern regions of the United States and Mexico. It produces vibrant magenta flowers in spring, attracting pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds. The Purple Santa Rita Cactus is a low-growing plant that forms sprawling mats and can reach a height of about 1-2 feet with a spread of 3-4 feet.