(Photograph = Opuntia ammophila flower bud, Danny Green)

Introduction

Opuntia ammophila was once more common in Florida, but habitat destruction has narrowed its range.

The Details

O ammophila has steel- or gray-green pads. The flowers are pale yellow, and the stigma is cream colored. Tepals are recurved strongly, so much so that the flower buds are distinct and memorable. Many needle-like spines may be deflexed. The plant was described from Ft. Pierce, FL.

Additional Reading: Florida Semaphore Cactus