Opuntia santa-rita (Purple Prickly Pear Cactus)

Opuntia santa-rita, commonly known as Purple Prickly Pear Cactus, is a species of Opuntia native to Arizona, New Mexico, and northern Mexico. It is a large, spreading cactus that can reach heights of up to 4 feet tall and 6 feet wide. The cactus is characterized by its paddle-shaped, purple to blue-green stems and beautiful yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and early summer. This species is well-adapted to desert conditions and requires full sun and well-drained soil to thrive.