These cacti from a low prostrate to upright tree-like habit with paddle-shaped branched segments. The segments have groups of spines or small bristles and the yellow to red funnel to bowl-shaped flowers appear in summer and are followed by red berries.

Hardiness zones 8 to 11

Opuntia species are naturally found in North and South America growing in well drained, gritty light soils in an open sunny position and is frost tender but drought tolerant.

The Prickly Pear Cactus are grown for their flowers, fruit and irregular habit. They vary in size and are planted in arid or cacti gardens as a specimen. They are also grown in pots, tubs and planter boxes but care should be taken with some species as they produce large spines and small bristles and should be kept away from children and public areas. They are fast growing and establish in 2-3 years and it is against the law to plant some species in certain countries as they become a weed. ID 707

Opuntia(o-PUN-tee-ah) species

Cactaceae(kak-TAY-see-ee)