Imbricate Prickly Pear
Cylindropuntia imbricata
NEMBA category
English: Imbricate Cactus
Afrikaans: Kabelturksvy
Misapplied or old scientific names: Opuntia imbricata
Cylindropuntia imbricata, commonly known as the Imbricate Prickly Pear or Chain-link Cactus, is an invasive succulent in South Africa that poses significant environmental challenges. Growing as an erect, tree-like cactus reaching heights of 3 meters, it is characterised by its distinctive cylindrical, blue-green stems covered in prominent tubercles and sharp, silver to brown spines.
Have you got a better picture?
If you don't mind us using it, please upload it by clicking the Upload button below (you must be logged in to do this)
Origins: Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico
Overall Appearance:
A shrubby or tree-like cactus with cylindrical, jointed stems growing up to 3 meters high and can spread widely to form dense thickets.
Leaves: Reduced to spines.
Flowers: Showy, purple or magenta flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
Fruits: Yellowish, spiny fruits that persist for many months.
Seeds: Produced within the fruits.
Soil Type: Tolerates a wide range of soil types.
Aspect: Full sun
Provinces Affected: Widespread in South Africa, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.
Friendly alternatives:
Common name
Scientific Name
Plant type:
Plant type
Plant family:
Plant family (derivation)