[3] As is the case in other Opuntia species, the green stems of this low-growing perennial cactus are flattened, and are formed of segments.

This species naturally occurs along the East Coast of the United States, including on barrier islands from the Florida Keys to coastal Massachusetts.

[7] Since eastern prickly pear grows in hot, sunny locations with thin soil that does not hold water, it is found in shale barrens, which are accumulations of thin, flat, eroded sedimentary rock on steep slopes with southern exposures – essentially a desert microclimate – in the Appalachian Mountains.

[8][9] This plant is very intolerant of shade and instead thrives in sunny, hot and dry environments with well-draining, sandy soil.

[12] Young cactus segments can be roasted to remove spines, then peeled and sliced to be eaten like string beans; alternatively, they can be deep fried.