A Stinging Success: The Oklahoma Prickly Pear

While many Oklahomans spend their spring tending to roses and vegetable gardens, one of the state's most resilient native residents is currently putting on a show.

The Prickly Pear cactus, known scientifically as Opuntia macrorhiza, has begun its annual transformation, sprouting new growth and preparing for its butter yellow floral display.

Found throughout the state, the Prickly Pear is a perennial forb easily identified by its jointed, flattened pads and long, radiating spines.