Expert: Greg Simpson - 9/11/2006

Question
I was recently in “Island Beach State Park” in New Jersey and noticed prickly pear cactus growing.
Is prickly pear cactus indigenous to NJ?
How did it get there?
Thanks,
Manny


Answer
Dear Manny,

Without knowing the latin name of the plant, I cannot tell you. However, cacti are native to all the lower 48 and into Canada. Prickly pear, or Opuntia are some of the hardiest cacti, able to survive freezing winters. Opuntia are also the most widespread cacti, from Southern South America to Southern Canada. See: http://www.desert-tropicals.com/Plants/Cactaceae/Opuntia.html

Hope this helps.

Sincerely,

Greg