^{(Photograph = Opuntia microdasys, Dmitri)}

Introduction

There are not many spineless Opuntia species. O. microdasys is a small, attractive, Mexican spineless species. 

The Details

O. microdasys has a large range through 8 or more Mexican states: Coahuila, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Nuevo León, Querétaro, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas and Zacatecas. It is not naturally found in the United States.

O. microdasys is remarkably monotypic throughout its range–variation is not common. The shrubby plants are important components of many Chihuahuan Desert communities. One important contribution is providing shelter for small animals, including birds. It also provides nectar and pollen for many insects. Typically it forms a dense, 2- to 3-ft tall shrub that may be 3- to 4-ft across. Glochids are yellow or white and numerous–it has no spines. It tolerates mild frosts.

O. microdasys is easy to grow in culture but requires good soil drainage, bright light or sunlight, and protection from hard frosts. 

Additional Reading: Checklist of Chihuahuan Desert Cacti