Prickly Pear Cactus

Habitat:

Sand Ridge State Park, IL. Mixed deciduous/coniferous habitats. Substrate is completely sand creating a suitable habitat for prickly pear cactus.

Notes:

I was quite surprised that Illinois could harbor prickly pear cactus. This was one of the main reasons for visiting this state park. I definitely found them, as they were everywhere, but just coming up from the winter slumber. I'll have to do some research to get down there when they are blooming.