About Opuntia austrina Small
Opuntia austrina Small grows from a single cylindrical stem, and produces growing segments called joints, which are also known as cladodes or pads. These joints are elongated, and their length is most often 2 to 3 times their width. The joints are typically dark green. Like other cactus species, Opuntia austrina has spines growing on both its joints and stem. This cactus can reach up to 1 meter (3 feet 3 inches) in height, and can form either large shrubs or small treelets. It produces yellow flowers that develop into red fruits after flowering. This species of prickly pear occurs primarily in South Florida. It grows in sandy substrates, most often in inland brushy dunes and along coastal mangrove edges. Additional native habitats it occupies include scrub, scrubby flatwoods, and xeric (dry) disturbed areas. The species' yellow flowers attract many pollinators to this ecosystem, including bees, other insects, and the dotted skipper.
