Common name:Indian Fig
Botanical name:Opuntia ficus-indica

Cactus grows at a moderate rate to 12' x 18'. Usually have no spines. Flowers are yellow to orange and appear in spring. Fruit is edible. Accepts full sun. When they are young, the pads, or mopales of this cactus are used to make a delicious salsa. Treelike scuptural qualities.

Common name:Elephant's Food
Botanical name:Portulacaria afra

Interesting succulent that sprawls to 3' x 4' at a moderate rate. Depending on pruning and cold, elephant's food can be grown as a groundcover or small shrub. Accepts full sun to partial shade but does best with some shade in most desert areas. Plants work very well in containers, and can be used indoors or outdoors. Adapted to many different conditions. Rarely flowers. Needs some protection from frost. Native to South Africa.

Common name:Yellow Bunny Ears, Goldplush Cactus
Botanical name:Opuntia microdasys

This cactus will quickly grow 3' x 5'. It has flat, stiff, green pads with tufts of short, golden spikes. Inconspicuous yellow flowers bloom in the spring. New pads appear in pairs, like rabbit ears. Do not plant in high traffic areas or where children or pets play.

Common name:Golden Barrel Cactus
Botanical name:Echinocactus grusonii

Globe shaped cactus grows slowly to 1-1/2' x 2'. Golden spines line medium green ribs. Yellow flowers appear in spring. Full sun but prefers some shade in low desert. Striking accent. Looks attractive in groupings. Native to southern Mexico.