any of a large genus (Opuntia) of cactus plants with red, purple, or yellow flowers, pulpy or dry berries, and fleshy, jointed stems, including the prickly pears and chollas
See opuntia in American Heritage Dictionary 4
(ō-pŭnˈshē-ə, -shə)
noun
Any of various cacti of the genus Opuntia, especially the prickly pear.