Favoritos de andrew_dudley

Image #1
Morphological comparisons of both Opuntia cespitosa Raf. (Left) and Opuntia humifusa Raf. (Right) observed at Rondeau Provinical Park on September 22, 2023.

Image #2:
Observers should note the (extremely) subtle differences between areole cross-sections and glochid formations of both species.

Image #3:
Opuntia cespitosa Raf. (Top) produces oblong fruiting bodies whereas Opuntia humifusa Raf. (Bottom) produces obovate fruiting bodies.

All suspected O. humifusa Raf. occurrences should be monitored from June-August to verify the production of wholly yellow blooms.

Multiple reflexing or deflexing radial spines per terminal areole. Notable glochid features when compared to hundreds of O. cespitosa observations taken across Ontario. There are notably more areoles per diagonal cross-section of a given joint when compared to hundreds of Ontarian O. cesptiosa observations. Tuber-like roots were observed. Red obovate fruiting bodies were also observed.

Temporary placement here based on the Intermountain Flora Vol 2A key. This plant was unlike any other Opuntia in the area i.e. it was not part of a population of similar plants. Have not seen flowers/fruits.