PRICKLY PEAR

Opuntia spp.

Extremely variable; 1 to 8 feet

Fast rate of growth

Full sun

Excellent salt and drought tolerance

Zones 8 to 11

An erect to somewhat sprawling perennial cactus with round, flat, spiny pads.

Beautiful, large, yellow flowers in spring are followed by edible, reddish, fig-like fruit.

Excellent wildlife attractor. A favorite of the Gopher Tortoise.

http://florida.plantatlas.usf.edu/Plant.aspx?id=3595

http://florida.plantatlas.usf.edu/Plant.aspx?id=3715

http://regionalconservation.org/beta/nfyn/plantdetail.asp?tx=Opunhumi

http://regionalconservation.org/beta/nfyn/plantdetail.asp?tx=Opunstri