Beavertail cactus

Description:

A low-growing cactus that lacks a trunk and can spread up to 4 ft. During arid conditions, the pads can take on a pink or purplish tinge (pic4). the pads lack long spines and often have the shape of a beaver's tail.

Habitat:

Spotted along the High View Nature Loop Trail at Joshua Tree National Park. Desert scrub habitat.

Notes:

Found in desert regions of the southwestern United States and northwest Mexico. Opuntia basilaris blooms from spring to early summer.