| Opuntia cespitosa | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Cactaceae |
| Genus: | Opuntia |
| Species: | O. cespitosa |
| Binomial name | |
| Opuntia cespitosa | |
Opuntia cespitosa, commonly called the eastern prickly pear, [1] is a species of cactus native to North America.
Opuntia cespitosa is a prostrate succulent shrub, usually no more than 1-2 segments tall. It has large white spines, and a low layer of reddish-brown glochids, which break off in the skin if touched. It produces a yellow and red flower in late spring. [2]
This species was historically included in a broadly defined Opuntia humifusa group, which is found further to the east. Opuntia cespitosa differs from Opuntia humifusa in its flowers having a red center. [3]
The species is commonly found at the west of Appalachian Mountains and east of the Mississippi River, where it is found in the Midwest, Upper South and in Ontario. [1] Its natural habitat is in dry, open areas, such as outcrops, glades, and barrens. [1]
O. cespitosa is invasive in South Africa. Some Hypogeococcus mealybugs are used as biological pest controls of this and other invasive cacti there. [4]