The Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia cactaceae) became the "Official Plant" of Texas in (1995). The
prickly pear is one of many different species native to Texas. This cactus is characterized by flat,
fleshy, somewhat oval pads that look like large leaves. The pads are actually modified branches or
stems. They serve the following functions: water storage, photosynthesis, and flower production.
Like other cactus, most species have spines. The prickly pear ranges in height from a few inches to
over six feet.
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