Opuntia polyacantha var. arenaria

A rare plant found at low elevations in the vicinity of the Rio Grande Valley near Las Cruces and sporadically northward. This taxon is recognized either as a distinct species or at the varietal level within O. polyacantha, depending on the treatment. As the name suggests, it grows in sandy habitats.

Plant habit near Black Mountain, 24 Jul 2007.

Stem segments & fruits near Black Mountain, 24 Jul 2007.