This time each year a steady stream of visitors come to ask us, “What is that plant in the display garden with the beautiful yellow flowers?” Before we can answer they follow with, “It looks like a cactus!” Well, they are exactly right! Not only is it a cactus but it is one of 3 varieties of cactus that are native to Minnesota. Yes, you read that correctly, Minnesota has native cacti. If you haven’t been in during their bloom before, it is definitely worth the stop. They are impressive!

We carry one of two varieties of native prickly pear commonly referred to as Plains Prickly Pear. This unique, perennial would be found in sunny, dry prairie environments and among exposed rock outcroppings. However, for our purposes, they are a fun and easy addition to any sunny, well drained perennial bed or border. Mature colonies produce a 12” high, dense groundcover or mat, which is covered with bright yellow flowers each June.