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Paper Spine Cactus

Optunia papyracantha

true

1 gallon

Paper Spine Cactus

In stock

1.5’x2’

Sizes:

Paper Spine Cactus – Tephrocactus articulatus var. papyracanthus

Also known as: Paper Spine Cholla; Paper Spine Cactus; Opuntia papyracantha

Paper Spine Cactus is a fascinating, low-growing species native to the arid slopes of western Argentina along the Andes Mountains. A variant of the Pine Cone Cactus, this member of the cactus family is especially prized for its unusual, ornamental spines and ease of propagation. It grows best in dry, rocky conditions and is often cultivated in desert gardens and container collections.

The segmented stems resemble loosely stacked pinecones, with each oblong, jointed segment easily detachable. These fragile joints often break off with minimal pressure but can readily root when in contact with soil, making this cactus a prolific spreader under the right conditions. Mature plants generally stay low to the ground, reaching no more than 1.5 feet in height.

Its most striking feature is its long, flattened white spines with a papery texture and curled, ribbon-like edges. Despite their soft appearance, the stems also bear sharp glochids in the areoles—tiny, barbed spines that can irritate the skin. In late spring or summer, large, showy white flowers with bright yellow centers appear, adding to the plant’s ornamental value.

Paper Spine Cactus prefers full sun, excellent drainage, and minimal irrigation. It is extremely drought-tolerant and makes an excellent container plant, especially in desert climates with hot, dry conditions.

Wildlife Value

Host Plant: —
Nectar Source: Generalist pollinators including native solitary bees
Bird Resources: Shelter; Cavity
Bird Species: Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus); Black-throated Sparrow (Amphispiza bilineata)

Plant Care

Native region:

Desert Adapted

Water needs:

Low

Exposure:

Full Sun; Filtered Shade

Mature size:

1.5’x2’

Growth rate:

Moderate

Flower color:

White

Flower season:

Spring; Fall

Pruning:

None

Cold Hardiness:

15 Degrees

Nectar-producing:

Yes

Attracts pollinators:

Yes

Nighttime pollinators:

Butterflies or Moths:

Monarchs:

Larval host:

Bees:

Yes

Bats:

Birds:

Yes

Nest site:

Nest materials:

Rabbit-resistant:

Yes

Tortoises:

Yes

Growing Plants in the Desert — Important Information

The information presented here is, to the best of my knowledge, accurate and based on reliable research, personal experience in my own garden, observations from other gardens I’ve visited, and time spent studying plants in their native habitats. I always welcome your feedback and experiences to help me continue educating others!

Cacti:
In my experience, cacti are much happier in filtered shade here in the low desert of the Coachella Valley. Their colors are more vibrant and they tend to bloom more profusely, especially the non-native varieties. If you look closely at how our native barrel cactus and beavertail prickly pear grow in the wild, you’ll often find them tucked among rocks or beneath the shelter of creosote and other shrubs.

⚠️ A note of caution: Cacti and succulents are often illegally collected from the wild, which not only damages plant populations but also disturbs entire ecosystems. In some cases, wild populations of cacti have even gone extinct because of this practice. When purchasing these plants, always be sure they’ve been legally obtained. Look for nursery-grown stock or plants with a native plant certification, and keep that documentation for your records.

Light Requirements:
In our desert (Sonoran/Colorado), “full sun” doesn’t always mean what you might think. Many so-called full-sun plants benefit from and actually appreciate some late-afternoon filtered light—especially during the intense summer months.