Cactaceae

Opuntia tomentosa

Common Names: Velvet tree pear

Plant Form: Upright succulent shrub to tree-like plant. Size: 2-8 m tall. Stem: Dull greyish-green elliptic flattened pads 15-30 cm long. Covered in short velvety hairs. With bumps (areoles) which have spines and clusters of bristles. Also has a well developed greyish-brown trunk up to 40 cm thick. Flowers: Bright orange 4-5 cm across with purplish tinged outer segments. Fruit and Seeds: Reddish-purple, egg-shaped 3-5 cm long. Velvety appearance. Habitat: Rangelands, open woodlands, pastures, arid areas. Distinguishing Features: Velvety hairy pads and fruit distinguish from other Opuntioid cacti (Opuntia species).