Eastern Prickly Pear
Opuntia humifusa
Cacti aren’t just for deserts. The Eastern Prickly Pear’s native range reaches from Texas to the northeastern states. Stunning yellow flowers open up to the sun in midsummer and attract numerous pollinators. Don’t let the spines dissuade you – this adorable, low-growing cactus is a great groundcover for hot, sunny, well-drained gardens.
Conditions: Full sun; dry to average soil
Size: 1′ tall
Zone: 4 – 9
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract a wide variety of bees; provides cover for small mammals and reptiles
