Family: Cactaceae
Author: (Engelm.) Cockerell
Bibliography: Bull. S. Calif. Acad. Sci. 4: 15 (1905)
Year: 1905
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Opuntia
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. California to Mexico (Baja California Norte)
Description
The Coastal pricklypear, scientifically known as Opuntia littoralis, is a fascinating member of the Cactaceae family. First documented in “Bulletin of the Southern California Academy of Sciences” in 1905 by Cockerell, who built upon the initial identification by Engelmann, this hardy cactus is predominantly found along the southwestern coastline of California extending down to Baja California Norte in Mexico.
Distinguished by its thick, oval, and flat pads, the Coastal pricklypear is adorned with characteristic clusters of sharp spines, making it an unmistakable presence in its native habitat. The plant showcases a remarkable adaptation to the coastal climate, thriving in areas where other vegetation might struggle due to arid conditions and saline exposure. The pads not only serve as water storage organs during dry spells but also play a crucial role in photosynthesis.
In addition to its formidable spines, this plant produces striking blooms that range from vivid yellows to oranges and reds, contributing to the biodiversity and aesthetic value of coastal ecosystems. These vibrant flowers eventually give way to edible fruit, known as “tunas,” which are both a food source for local wildlife and, interestingly, can be harvested and enjoyed by humans.
The Coastal pricklypear plays an essential ecological role by providing shelter and nourishment for various species. Smaller mammals, birds, and insects are often seen interacting with the plant, either seeking refuge from predators or participating in pollination activities.
Environmental enthusiasts and botanists regard Opuntia littoralis as an essential species for habitat restoration efforts. Its resilience and adaptability make it an ideal choice for restoring degraded areas, where it can help prevent soil erosion and support the re-establishment of native flora and fauna.
In summary, Opuntia littoralis stands as a testament to nature’s ingenuity, showcasing the unique adaptations of cactus species to coastal environments. Its presence from Southern California to Baja California Norte highlights the interconnectedness of these regions’ ecosystems, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts to protect this distinctive and beneficial species.
Common Names
Spa: nopal del litoral
Eng: coastal pricklypear, coastal prickly-pear
En: Coastal pricklypear, Coastal prickly-pear, Coastal Prickly-pear Cactus
Ar: صبير شاطئي
Zh: 海滨仙人掌
Es: Nopal del Litoral
Synonyms
- Opuntia engelmannii f. littoralis ((Engelm.) Schelle)
- Opuntia lindheimeri var. littoralis ((Engelm.) J.M.Coult.)
- Opuntia engelmannii var. littoralis (Engelm.)
- Opuntia × occidentalis var. littoralis ((Engelm.) Parish)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jul 28, 2020 by Kevin Caves (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 24, 2020 by Vázquez Pau (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 21, 2022 by Catherine Schmitz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 26, 2022 by Yante DuBois (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 29, 2020 by Jonathan Testa (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Dec 30, 2010 by EOL − Mauricio Mercadante (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − Niehaus, T.F. (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 10, 2015 by EOL − James Bailey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 25, 2019 by kalani kalani (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 2, 2020 by Sanchez Victoria Sanchez (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Jun 9, 2015 by EOL − Cedric Lee (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 14, 2013 by EOL − BJ Stacey (cc-by-nc)
Taken Sep 16, 2013 by EOL − Tatiana Zavala (cc-by-nc)
Taken Oct 29, 2015 by EOL − Claudia and Daniel (cc-by-nc)
Taken Aug 13, 2019 by christiane Fazer (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 6, 2022 by Giode Tonpino (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Sep 14, 2013 by EOL − Ximena Gil (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jul 25, 2020 by Enciso Emmanuel (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 18, 2020 by Minor Juan (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 25, 2022 by Henry Broeska (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 27, 2021 by Doug S (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Nov 2, 2014 by EOL − qli (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 29, 2013 by EOL − James Maughn (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 1, 2014 by EOL − Killian (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 25, 2019 by kalani kalani (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 27, 2021 by Doug S (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5384134)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:175247-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Opuntia littoralis (Engelm.) Cockerell)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Shrub