The eastern prickly pear cactus is a short cactus that is widespread throughout most of eastern North America. Its range extends from the Gulf of Mexico northward into parts of Ontario, Canada.

The reddish “pear” doesn’t look much like a pear to me, and even though it is edible, it is not tasty. This plant doesn’t have leaves. Instead, it has appendages called pads that are generously adorned with sharp prickles that you don’t want to mess with.

The eastern prickly pear cactus can be found in fence rows, edges of old fields and rocky places. In Southeast Missouri probably the best place to find this cactus is at Sand Prairie Conservation Area near Benton.

Horrell is an artist and outdoorsman. He lives in Chaffee. He owns Painted Wren Art Gallery in Cape Girardeau.