Description

Growth Habit:
Forms a dense, shrub-like plant, spreading out to cover 2-5 feet of ground. 
Cladodes:
The pads are oval to round, typically 3-6 inches long and 1.6-4.7 inches wide. 
Glochids:
These are the small, barbed bristles that cover the pads, giving the plant a soft, fuzzy appearance. 
Color:
New growth starts as a reddish color and matures to dark green. 
Flowers:
Yellow flowers can appear, often sprouting from the terminal ends of the pads. 
Habitat and Care:
Origin: Native to arid, desert-like areas of Mexico. 
Light: Thrives in full sun to partial shade, needing at least 4-6 hours of bright, direct sunlight daily. 
Soil: Requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot. 
Watering: Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry during the growing season, reducing frequency in the winter. 
Temperature: Tolerates temperatures down to 0°F, but prefers temperatures above 10°C. 
Humidity: Does not tolerate high humidity and is best suited for dry climates. 
Other Notable Features:
Low Maintenance: Considered a low-maintenance plant, ideal for beginners. 
Propagation: Easily propagated from cuttings or seeds. 
Fruit: Can produce small, edible, red to purple fruits after flowering. 
Potential Hazards: The glochids can detach easily and cause skin irritation, so caution should be used when handling.