The Prickly Pear cactus ( Opuntia genus) is native to southern USA, Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean and tropical South America, this species of cactus was introduced to Australia in the 19th century f or use as a natural agricultural fence and in an attempt to establish a cochineal dye industry . Because of the lack of leaves and the tough outer skin of the pads, the plant is very drought-resistant and thrived in the Australian climate. It gradually took over vast areas of land until a biological control was introduced in the form of the Cactoblastis moth following WWI. An invasive weed... Prickly Pear is now considered an invasive weed in Australia and is found throughout Queensland, including on our property. Thankfully I often see Cactoblastis larvae on them, so they are not out of control here. Several species of Opuntia cactus are known as prickly pear, and its most likely that we have Opuntia Stricta growing here as this is the most common speci...