Bakersfield Cactus
(Opuntia basilaris var. treleasei )
Cactaceae

Photo Copyright 2002 J.S. Peterson USDA NRCS NPDC

Description: Shrub. Plants small or low. Stems succulent. Joints 2-6 inches (5-15cm) long and flattened, mostly spineless. Many areoles (an area bearing 1-many spines), 2/8-5/8 inches (.5-1.5cm) apart. Areoles containing 1-3 spines, 2/8-1 inch (6-25mm) long. Flowers orchid to rose, or rarely white colored. Fruits are dry.

Distribution:

Habitat: Scrub, cismontane woodland, valley and foothill grassland / sandy or gravelly. Elevation 384-1760 feet.

Flowering Period: Blooms May

Similar Plants:

Status: BLM Sensitive, California Native Plant Society List 1B