Opuntia humifusa
Eastern prickly pear is native to eastern North America east of the Rockies including Ontario. It is a prostrate plant comprised of relatively large flattened pads for a species with such a northerly range. In summer it produces large two to three inch wide golden yellow flowers sometimes with peach or orange centres followed by edible reddish purple fruit. Plant in full sun in sharply draining soil.
Common Name: Eastern Prickly Pear
Family: Cactaceae (The Cactus Family)
Zone Hardiness: 4-10
Light: Full Sun
Height: 4-8"
Width: 8-12"
Primary Bloom Colour: Yellow
Secondary Bloom Colour: Orange
Bloom Time: Summer
Foliage Colour: Green
Class: Evergreen
Type: Perennial
Soil Moisture: Dry, Drought Tolerant
Stem Colour:
Fragrance: No
Berries:
Benefits: Bees
Deer Resistant: Yes
BC Native: Yes
Native Habitat: Openings in sandy forests, sandy savannas, sand prairies, gravel prairies, barrens and rocky bluffs, sandstone and limestone glades, sand dunes, rocky or sandy slopes and pastures.
Award:
Geographical Origin: North America
