Cactus – Winter-hardy

Q: Is there a list of cactus that will grow here in Atlanta? If so how can I get it and where can I get them?

 

A: According to Randy Kucera, eponymous owner of Randy’s Perennials and Greenhouse in Lawrenceville, there are several succulent plants, including cactus, that will survive in Atlanta. All demand extremely well-drained soil to prevent root rot.

Agave plants range in size from one foot to six feet tall. The rosette of thick leaves will eventually produce a huge flower spike. There are several species of yucca which grow nicely here and flower each year. Prickly pear cactus comes in both a spiny and a non-spiny form. Randy is experimenting with a couple of barrel cactus which show promise for desert gardening in the Southeast. You can visit his cactus garden at the nursery or learn about more succulents at www.randysnursery.com.

author avatar
Walter Reeves
  • Advertisement