Opuntia sp. ‘Dark Knight’ Prickly Pear — A cactus with a flair for the dramatic.

Its pads glow deep violet under stress — a living sculpture in moody desert tones. Add golden blooms in spring, and you’ve got a plant worthy of its heroic name.

Plant Details:

• Water Needs: Very low; water sparingly

• Sun Needs: Full sun

• Soil Requirements: Sandy, fast-draining soil

• Growing Zone: USDA Zones 7–10

• Cold Hardiness: To 0°F

• Mature Size: 2–3 ft tall × 4–6 ft wide

• Native Origin: Hybrid selection, Southwestern USA

• Best Substitutes For: Opuntia basilaris, Cylindropuntia imbricata

• Landscape Uses: Accent plant, desert color contrast, modern xeriscapes