Opuntia humifusa - Prickly Pear Cactus

Morphology/Growth Habits: Prickly pear cactus is the only showy native cactus widely found in the Northeast US. Flat, ovate pads with clusters of tiny red/brown spines. This cactus is clump-forming and grows into mats over long periods of time. In early summer, singular large yellow flowers with reddish centers decorate the tops of these pads. These flowers then turn into fleshy, red fruit that stays on the cactus well into fall. Spreads by seed. Broken-off pads can easily take root as well. 

Height: 0.25-1 ft.

Light: Full Sun

Moisture: Dry

Bloom color: Yellow

Bloom time: May-July

Habitat/Best Environments: Opuntia humifusa thrives in sandy, sunny, and rocky areas. Great option for gardens that aren’t regularly watered, rock gardens, and sandy soils. 

Ecological relationships: Larval host for several moth species, like the Arge Tiger Moth. Flowers attract pollinators like bees. This cactus is *eaten and used for medicinal purposes across many medicines. 

*Please soil test and do proper research before growing a plant for human consumption.

Fun facts: The stamens of this flower respond to touch- closing in when stimulated. This is an evolutionary tactic designed to maximize the amount of pollen that gets on a visiting pollinator!