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Plains Cactus

Pediocactus simpsonii

Last reviewed: August 2026

Plains Cactus (Pediocactus simpsonii)
Photo: no rights reserved, uploaded by Robbie Hannawacker

Toxicity unknown

Plains Cactus (Pediocactus simpsonii) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

2"–12" H × 3"–8" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

AZ, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 459 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

North American DesertsNorthwestern Forested MountainsCentral Basin and RangeSouthern RockiesArizona/New Mexico MountainsHigh Plains

Plains cactus is a small, compact native succulent that forms neat, rounded cushions close to the ground. It produces bright pink to yellow flowers in late spring and early summer, adding seasonal color to dry landscapes. This hardy perennial requires minimal care once established and thrives in challenging rocky and arid environments.

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In an HOA neighborhood

Plains Cactus takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Cactus plants often prohibited in front yards
  • Spines may be considered safety hazard
  • Unconventional appearance for traditional landscapes

Wildlife value

The colorful blooms attract native bees and beetles during the flowering season in May and June. This native cactus provides habitat for specialized desert insects and small wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Plains Cactus need?
Plains Cactus grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Plains Cactus bloom?
Plains Cactus blooms in May and June.
Where is Plains Cactus native?
Plains Cactus (Pediocactus simpsonii) is native to AZ, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Plains Cactus attract?
Plains Cactus draws bees and beetles.
Is Plains Cactus HOA-friendly?
Plains Cactus takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

See all plant problem guides

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