Opuntia basilaris (Beavertail Prickly Pear Cactus)

Opuntia basilaris, commonly known as Beavertail Prickly Pear Cactus, is a species of cactus native to the southwestern United States. It has distinct fleshy pads that are bluish-green in color and shaped like a beaver's tail, hence the common name. The pads are covered in small clusters of spines, which are actually modified leaves. In the spring, it produces beautiful pink or purple flowers that bloom at the top of the pads.