Prickly Pear Cactus

Picture taken by: Marie Granados
GPS Point taken by: Marie Granados
Location: Pine Ridge Nature Preserve at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales, Florida

Elevation: 277Ft
Latitude: N27.93996
Longitude: W81.57722

Scientific Name: Opontia Camressa AKA Prickly Pear Cactus

Prickly Pear Cactus’ thrive along the state’s coastal srip or sandy uplands. Hey are woody, succulent plants up to 15.7 inches tall. The flowers are yellow, and it also has purple berries. They flower May through June and fruit August to November. Prickly pear provide food for many animals. It is a very important source of food to the endangered gopher tortoises. Other animals that eat fruit from the prickly pear includes birds.

Article written by: John Cooper