Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus plant

Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus is a part of the botanical family Cactaceae and the genus Opuntia. These perennial plants are native to the eastern United States and Mexico. The plant grows best in full sunlight and well-drained sandy soil. The flowers are solitary, funnel-shaped and have 7-20 petals. The fruits of Opuntia are red berries and edible.

The plant attracts bees, butterflies, and songbirds because of its nectar-rich flowers. Many birds and other wildlife animals eat the berries of the plant. Prickly Pear is also grown as an ornamental houseplant.