Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia humifusa)

= Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia humifusa) =
Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus, scientifically named Opuntia humifusa, is one of only two species of Cactus native to Ontario.Wild Plants From Seed This Cactus is found only in Southern Ontario, just over the border from it's more common home in the United States. Unlike many Cacti and Succulents, this Perennial is hardy to the cold. Opuntia humifusa is used by Indigenous Canadian peoples and even other cultures around the world for Medicinal uses. It's fruit is edible and even the pulp and seeds can make syrup or jelly. Young Cactus segments can also be eaten. It provides a veritable buffet for those who grow it. Being endangered, it's absolutely forbidden and unethical to harvest in the wild.
This spined Cactus can cause irritation and regret, should it be touched.
== Sowing and Reproduction ==
There is no gender requirement to grow Eastern Prickly Pear Cactus. The plant is bisexual and produces male and female flowers on the same plant. Sources are divided on if it requires a second genetically distinct plant to fruit or if it can self-pollinate.
Method
Germinating from seed is complex so many prefer to start it from pads. Sow the seed pressing it lightly into the soil. Requires light to germinate. InstallItDirect
Cold Stratification
Eastern Prickly Pear seeds are famously finicky requiring multiple temperature fluctuations and randomly more than two seasons. Germination is erratic and there isn't much information on methods to improve it. Sow outside in pots or in the garden in spring and let the seasons pass. 
== Harvesting ==
Seeds can be collected anytime from Fall through to spring (when they will naturally drop once the fruit withers). The fleshy part of the fruit should be allowed to dry and wither and then the seeds removed manually.
== Storage ==
Like other seeds that come from fruit, Opuntia humifusa seeds should be washed with soap and water to ensure no juice or pulp remains. They can then be left to dry again, finally storing in a paper envelope. 
== Toxicity ==
Strength: Non-toxic. Edible.
Non-Toxic to:
* Humans: Toxic on ingestion, but requires large amounts to cause severe symptoms.
* Other: Dogs, cats and horses are all fine if they eat Opuntia humifusa but it's likely the spines will dissuade them.