opuntiaopuntia
genusgenusDesert-dwelling cacti characterized by their flat, paddle-shaped segments called pads, which grow in a branching pattern. These hardy plants feature distinctive circular areoles dotted across their surface, from which spines, flowers, and even fruits can emerge.
Etymology
The name 'Opuntia' comes from the ancient Greek city of Opus, where Pliny the Elder recorded a spiny plant growing that could root from its leaves, though this was likely a different plant entirely.
Interesting fact!
The pads are actually modified stems that store water and can detach easily, allowing the plant to propagate itself when the pads root where they fall.
All species of Opuntia
opuntiaRufida
Blind prickly pear, Red velvet prickly pear, Cinnamon cactus.
opuntiaMicrodasys
Bunny ears cactus, Angel wings cactus, Polka dot cactus.
opuntiaFicus-indica
Prickly pear, Indian fig, Barbary fig.
opuntiaMonacantha
Drooping prickly pear, Joseph's coat cactus, Variegated paddle cactus.
opuntiaLeucotricha
Aaron's beard cactus, Woolly opuntia, Bunny ears cactus.
opuntiaSubulata
Eve's needle, Awl cactus, Pencil cactus.
opuntiaCylindrica
Cane cholla, Rolling pin cactus, Candle cactus.
opuntiaRobusta
Wheel cactus, Silver dollar cactus, Giant prickly pear.
opuntiaCochenillifera
Cochineal cactus, Spineless prickly pear, Nopal cactus.
opuntiaTomentosa
Velvet prickly pear, Wooly opuntia, Tree prickly pear.
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