iN PHOTOS: Brief bloom of native cactus in Thompson-Okanagan beautifies grasslands

Grassy hillsides around the Thompson-Okanagan region are covered with the bright yellow, orange and soft pink blooms of the native brittle prickly pear cactus at this time year, a phenomenon that doesn’t last long.

The species is one of few native cacti in the country and the Okanagan’s only native cactus.

Summerland resident Susanne Gebert was hiking on a hillside close to her residence a few days ago when she noticed a plethora of the blooms.

“I was hiking on a hill, pulling out invasive weeds when I saw them all, I don’t think we’ve had nearly as many as we have this year,” she said.

“They’re not all in bloom yet, they started about a week ago. I’ll be going out to photograph more of them, they’re beautiful.”

Brittle prickly pear cactus is known for its ability to thrive in harsh conditions and extreme temperatures including arid and desert regions where water is scarce, according to Nature Trust BC. They can grow as far north as Fort St. John due to their ability to shrivel up and hibernate in the winter.

The plants not only add a pop of colour to arid landscapes during the brief bloom, they play a key role in the ecosystem as they have extensive root systems that help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.

The blooms only last for a few days to a week. If you go out to view them, remember to be careful where you sit.