This succulent can add a little southwest flare to almost any home or garden. Although many varieties have glochids, which are the needle-like spines that can cause an allergic skin reaction for some, ...

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Ever walked past a cactus with broad, flat, ovoid pads with colorful spiky balls growing from them? You just walked past a source of food.

Question: I recently bought my first home in Santa Rosa. The backyard has a prickly pear cactus that’s about 6 feet tall. Since it’s the first time I’ve owned one, can you share information about it ...

I didn't want to be a plant snob. So I told myself I at least appreciated some merits of the homely cactus. The prickly pear, after all, is a role model for water conservation. The flowers are pretty ...