This cactus is low to the ground and contains medium sized clumps. Opuntia are grown in an arrangement with rounded pads called (cladoes). Typically this species is no more than 2 feet tall but can stretch 10 feet across (1,2). The shorter spines tend to be thicker than the longer ones which are more thin like hair, the hair-like prickles are called glochids. (1,2). The flowers are light yellow and will bloom during the spring months of may and june (1). This species is relatively tolerant to frost conditions and can be found in locations as high as 7,000 feet in elevation (1). 

Prickly pear contains over 100 species and is native to South and North America. In Arizona this plant can be found in the south rim area of the Grand Canyon.

Opuntia Erinacea grows best in soils with pH between 5.0 and 7.5 (Acid - Neutral). For adequate growth it requires porous cactus soil as well as efficient airflow. Regarding watering, apply water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch (1,2). Typically it is standard to propagate cacti during late spring in order to provide them plenty of time to be established before the winter months bring cold temperatures (3). Opuntia Erinacea can be propagated from pad cuttings or grown by seeds. Typically it is easier to propagate this catic through pad cuttings. In order to efficiently produce rooting you should wait 1 - 2 weeks to plant after making the cutting (2). Plant the cuttings roughly 1 inch deep into the ground. The roots will develop in about 1 month and should be watered when the top one inch of the soil feels dry to the touch ().