Opuntia rufida is a species of prickly pear cactus native to southwestern Texas and northern Mexico, where it grows on rocky slopes.

The plant generally has a short trunk, and the thickish tomentose pads are subcircular, obovate, or elliptical.

In mid-spring the plant produces a profusion of brilliant yellow flowers changing to orange and red, 3 to 4 inches across.

However, the glochids tend to dislodge easily when the plant is bumped or shaken and they can be dangerous to humans and animals if carried by the wind.

[4][3] Opuntia rufida is native to the Big Bend area of southwestern Texas and the Chihuahuan Desert of northern Mexico.