Opuntia humifusa (Eastern Prickly Pear)

Widely found in the eastern United States, Opuntia humifusa (Eastern Prickly Pear) is a clump-forming succulent shrub with round-to-oval, fleshy, purple-tinged, green pads, up to 10 in. across (25 cm). Covered with clusters of reddish-brown, barbed bristles, the pads are scattered with needle-like spines. In summer, this cactus puts out some of the most striking flowers. Bright yellow, sometimes with a reddish heart, the large, waxy blossoms, 3 in. wide (7 cm), count up to 8-12 yellow rays and are adorned with a bushy clump of yellow center stamens. Attractive to a myriad of pollinator species, they are followed by bright red fruits that are almost as pretty as the flowers. Edible, they are most often used to make candies and jams. Frost hardy, Opuntia humifusa is a very decorative cactus which adds beauty to the garden year-round.

• Typically grows up to 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm) and 12-18 in. wide (30-45 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in sandy or gravelly, dry, well-drained soils. This plant tolerates a wide variety of soils as long as they are well-draining. Drought tolerant once established.
• This low-maintenance plant is a great choice for xeriscape gardens, rock gardens, sandy slopes, Mediterranean gardens and desert gardens.
• This remarkable plant is deer resistant and is easy to care for.
• Generally disease-free.
• Propagate from woody stem cuttings or from seed.
• Native to the United States.