Creeping Prickly-pear
Opuntia humifusa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Opuntia humifusa is a low-growing native cactus found across eastern states from Massachusetts to Alabama. This drought-tolerant succulent produces bright yellow flowers from May through July.
Creeping Prickly-pear (Opuntia humifusa) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–12" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, CT, DE, KY and 9 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
This native cactus forms low-growing mats of flattened, paddle-shaped stems with bright yellow flowers in late spring and summer. It thrives in poor, sandy soils and requires minimal water once established, making it excellent for challenging dry locations.
Growing Creeping Prickly-pear
Grow Creeping Prickly-pear in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 12 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Creeping Prickly-pear takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Cactus appearance conflicts with traditional landscaping expectations
- Sharp spines create liability concerns
Wildlife value
The showy yellow blooms attract native bees and beetles during its May through July flowering period. The plant also provides habitat for specialized desert-adapted insects.
Common questions
- Where does Opuntia humifusa naturally grow?
- Opuntia humifusa is native to eastern North America, ranging from Massachusetts south to Alabama and west to Kentucky, including coastal and inland states.
- When does Creeping Prickly-pear bloom?
- Opuntia humifusa typically blooms from May through July, producing showy yellow flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Opuntia humifusa?
- Creeping Prickly-pear flowers are visited by bees and beetles, which help pollinate the blooms during the summer flowering period.
- How much water does Opuntia humifusa need?
- As a drought-tolerant succulent, Creeping Prickly-pear requires minimal water once established and thrives in well-drained soils with infrequent watering.
- Is Creeping Prickly-pear toxic to dogs?
- Creeping Prickly-pear is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Creeping Prickly-pear toxic to cats?
- Creeping Prickly-pear is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Creeping Prickly-pear HOA-friendly?
- Creeping Prickly-pear takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Creeping Prickly-pear? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz