Prickly pear. Opuntia spp.
Native to America
There are a number of different species of prickly pear that invade the coastal environment. Out-breaks are isolated along the entire coast of NSW. Prickly pear can survive in dry infertile areas invading rocky headlands, dunes and open bushland.
Form: Erect up to 2m high.
Flower: Pale yellow. Summer.
Fruit/Seed: Red, large and succulent with fine spikey hairs.
Control: Use gloves and be careful of the small fine spikey hairs. The entire plant should be bagged and disposed of.
Chemical controls are available.