A clump-forming cactus bearing few yellow flowers, often with reddish centers and flat, fleshy, green pads covered with clusters of minute, reddish-brown, barbed bristles. The oval, segmented "pads" of this prickly-pear occur in low mounds usually less than 8 in. in height but up to 3 ft. across. Large, waxy, yellow flowers with masses of showy stamens are produced singly or in small groups along the upper edges of the pads. A reddish-colored, edible fruit follows. Small, hair-like spines occur on the pads and fruits.