Others are more cylindrical in appearance. Sprawling habit of growth, with a growth of 4' by 4'. Blooms are produced on top of stem in winter or spring and can be attractive pink to rose to maroon in color. Fruits and stems are edible. They prefer full sun and can survive very dry, hot and hostile environments.
Some species are hardy.
Can be introduced into the garden as an accent, for color or in the edible landscape. One of the common species in the California landscape is Opuntia basilaris . There is a maroon coloration at tip of leaf. Available in flat stock. In 1 or 2 seasons should be filled in.