Potts Prickly Pear blooming in the morning sun
Potts Prickly Pear, also known as Opuntia pottsii, is a cactus species native to the southwestern United States, mainly found in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. It belongs to the family Cactaceae and is a member of the Opuntia genus known for its flat, paddle-shaped stems called cladodes or pads.
Potts Prickly Pear is a fascinating desert cactus with its distinctive appearance, colorful flowers, and edible fruits. It plays an essential ecological role in providing food and habitat for various wildlife species and has cultural significance in the regions where it is native.
Teresa captured this photo in the early morning, bringing out the amazing color of the blooms.