Prickly Pear Cactus is the most widespread cactus in North America, ranging from the Pacific Coast to the Atlantic and from southern Canada to Mexico. Its yellow flowers are visited by many native bees, and the purple-red tunas (fruits) are consumed by coyotes, foxes, deer, javelinas, and many birds. The pads were a critical food and water source for indigenous peoples.
Best time to see a Prickly Pear Cactus
The best time to see a Prickly Pear Cactus is March–June, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 26,654 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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