In the arid southwest, native cactus species are abundant and expected, but in the temperate mid-eastern US they can be a surprising sight. Thriving in harsh and lean microclimates shaped by rock outcrops, shale barrens, and coastal sands, eight species of Opuntia (prickly pear cactus) can be found growing naturally in the eastern US. Three of these species (O. cespitosa, O. humifusa, and O. mesacantha) are recognized as being native to Virginia. Opuntia cespitosa is the least common here, growing only in the Ridge and Valley ecoregion on limestone or calcareous shale. It's distinguished from the others by sunny yellow flowers that are red-tinged at their base. Opuntia humifusa, the most widespread species in Virginia, is characterized by clear yellow flowers and spineless pads. Opuntia mesacantha, commonly called southeastern prickly pear, is the species that tumbles in profusion from the rocks on a roadcut near my home in central Virginia. I make a yearly pilgrimage to see it in bloom there in early June. Each clear yellow flower only lives for one day, but with hundreds opening in succession, this spot is a magnet for native bees and for cactus lovers like me. Opuntia mesacantha can be identified by its pure yellow flowers and occasional long spines.

Prickly pear cactus species have a long history of human use and cultivation. The pads and fruits of Opuntia ficus indica (the most commonly cultivated species in the world) were being depicted by the Aztec of Central America by the 15th century, and they are still used by their descendants today. The fruits (pears) yield a bright pink juice with a taste reminiscent of melon or under-ripe strawberries. The pads (called nopales) have a citrusy flavor and are a ready source of vitamin C and magnesium. Cochineal, a brilliant red dye, is produced by and harvested from a scale insect (Dactylopius coccus) that feeds on O. ficus indicus. Listed as “carmine” on food labels, this dye is also frequently used to tint cosmetics and has traditionally been used to color cloth.

Native animals and insects rely on Opuntia species wherever they grow in abundance. Bees and other insects gather Opuntia pollen. Turtles, birds, and small mammals feast on the ripe “pears”. I have collected O. mesacantha fruit myself and boiled its pink juice down into a sweet syrup. Even so, I appreciate this native cactus most for growing naturally in the harshest of conditions, and for bringing beauty and sustenance to the animals that make their homes there.