Opuntia elata is a species of cactus found in Bolivia, Paraguay, southern Brazil, northern Argentina, and Uruguay.
Opuntia elata is a fast growing Opuntia with a tendency to branch out. It can reach up to 1-1.5 m in height and spread (occasionally 3 m). The joints may grow straight, white spines up to 3-4 cm long.
The flower is orange to yellow in color, appearing around late spring up to summer. The fruit is club shaped and purple-red when ripe.
, Plants of the World Online accepted three varieties:
The plant can be found at Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, Tarija of Bolivia. They can also be found growing at Cuba.