Opuntia tomentosa aka Velvet Opuntia

Opuntia tomentosa is a cactus called velvet tree pear. It belongs to the cactus family, Cactaceae. Its native range runs from Mexico to Honduras. It grows in dry scrub, grassland, and oak woods. It also occurs in warm, partly dry regions. Plants have escaped gardens in Spain, South Africa, and Australia. The species has a Least Concern conservation status.

This evergreen cactus forms a shrub or branching tree. LLIFLE gives a usual height of 10–20 feet [3–6 metres]. Some plants reach 26 feet [8 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants gives a lower range of 3–16 feet [1–5 metres]. A broad crown sits above a smooth, woody trunk. The green pads are stem sections, not leaves. Fine, short hairs give them a soft, velvet feel. Lower pads become woody as the plant grows. Young plants may have pale spines that turn grey. Many lose most of their spines with age. Small raised spots also bear short, yellow, barbed glochids.

Flowers appear mainly in spring and summer, during warm weather. Their colours range from yellow through orange to red. Most grow alone near the edges of young pads. Bees and other insects pollinate the flowers. The fleshy fruit changes from green to dull purple-red. Each fruit has red pulp and many seeds. Fine hairs and glochids cover its skin. The fruit tastes sweet, though some other prickly pears taste better. People eat it raw or make jam, jelly, and chutney.

This cactus grows fast and suits a sunny site. It can endure long spells without rain. Grow it in compost that drains well. Protect it from wet conditions in winter. Small plants cannot withstand frost or severe cold. PFAF lists USDA zones 9–12 for the species. Growers raise plants from seeds or detached pads. Pad cuttings need time to dry before potting. Removing hanging or spreading branches can shape a taller tree.

People grow velvet tree pear as an ornamental and living fence. They also gather wild plants for food and fuel. It can become a weed along roads and railway lines. It also grows in pastures, open woods, and disturbed ground. Its soft surface does not make it safe to touch. Glochids break free and lodge in skin, causing pain and irritation. The supplied sources name no specific pests or diseases.