Small, Flora of the Southeastern United States 817, 1933

Herbarium; Herbarium; Herbarium; Herbarium; Herbarium; Herbarium; Herbarium; Herbarium; Drawing (Britton and Rose v1, 1919)

Original Description

What is Opuntia austrina?

Opuntia austrina is a small, bushy or single-stemmed prickly pear cactus from southern Florida. 

Details

O. austrina is a variable species of prickly pear cactus, with plants typically reaching up to 1 meter in height, though smaller individuals are common. This species occurs in both disturbed habitats, such as cow pastures, and undisturbed environments, including pine hummocks. Growth form varies; stems may spread outward from near the base of a central stem with tuberous roots, or a small, tree-like structure may develop.

Cladodes are relatively small, generally 2.5–6 cm in length. Areoles often bear a single prominent spine, particularly on the upper half of the cladode, and a second, smaller spine—sometimes deciduous—may also be present.

Flowers are bright yellow, and fruits are reddish, typically 2.5–3.0 cm long. Cytological data suggest that O. austrina is likely diploid.

For molecular reference, see GenBank locus NC_083932.

Other Notes

Britton and Rose reported that this Opuntia occurs in southern FL, including the Keys. O. austrina has been proposed to be the same taxon as O. ammophila and O. polycarpa. For now, we accept it as a stand-alone Opuntia species. 

This plant is attractive in gardens with its bright yellow flowers. It is not cold-hardy. 

For more information, see:

Majure L.C., Judd W.S., Soltis P.S., and Soltis, D.E. (2017) Taxonomic revision of the Opuntia humifusa complex (Opuntieae: Cactaceae) of the eastern United States, Phytotaxa 290.

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Opuntia austrina in habitat

Opuntia austrina in habitat

Opuntia austrina in habitat

Opuntia austrina in habitat

Opuntia austrina with fruit

Opuntia austrina with fruit

Opuntia austrina, a photo by Paul Fischer

Opuntia austrina, Brevard County, FL

Opuntia austrina, garden plant

Opuntia austrina, garden plant

Opuntia austrina, garden plant

Opuntia austrina, garden plant

Opuntia austrina, garden plant

Opuntia austrina, garden plant, Paul Fischer

Opuntia austrina, garden plant, Paul Fischer

Opuntia austrina, Paul Fischer

Opuntia austrina, Paul Fischer

Opuntia austrina, Paul Fischer

Opuntia austrina, small plant