Even if she lives in the desert, our fancy Prickly Pear Cactus Fairy just loves to dress extravagantly in spring! She definitely sets the tone in desert fashion!
Did you know that Prickly Pear Cactus is native to the dry regions of the Americas? While the botanists call it Opuntia, it is also known as Indian Fig, Paddle Cactus, or Nopales.
This spectacular cactus grows in a bush that can reach up to 5 feet high and live up to 20 years! In spite of its sharp spines, it blooms with dazzling flowers in wonderful tones of yellow, orange, pink and red. When the blooms fade, they turn into red fruits called prickly pear, cactus pear or tuna.
Prickly Pear Cactus has been used by people since ancient times. Its pads, flower buds, fruit, and even seeds make delicious meals, while its sap has healing properties!
