User:Welwitschia8/new sandbox

Distribution
This species naturally occurs from arid areas of Montana southward to New Mexico, and eastward to the lower Great Lakes, and along the East Coast from the Florida Keys to coastal Connecticut. Its distribution in Canada is limited to the Carolinian forest in southern Ontario, specifically in Point Pelee National Park.

Taxonomy
Some botanists treat this cactus as a variety of Opuntia compressa: hence Opuntia compressa var. humifusa, or a synonym of Opuntia compressa. Those recognizing this species treat Opuntia rafinesquii as a junior synonym.

Habitat
This plant is very intolerant of shade and instead thrives in sunny, hot and dry environments with well-draining, sandy soil. Opuntia humifusa will grow in open areas in sandy, rocky and coastal scrub habits. They are capable of surviving cool winters unlike many cacti, although harsh winter storms are known to cause habitat loss.

In Canada
The Eastern prickly pear is the only native cactus species in Canada and is considered endangered, with only two small populations known to be persisting today. Their population range in southern Ontario has diminished over time due to succession by larger woody vegetation which shade out the cacti.