I've included a photo of my large one so you can see how it grows.

Care Guide

To keep your fuzzy prickly pear thriving, mimic its native arid environment:

• Light: Provide as much bright, direct sunlight as possible. Without adequate sun, the paddles will become thin, elongated, and lose their round shape. [1]

• Soil: Plant in a highly gritty, well-draining cactus and succulent mix. [1, 2, 3]

• Water: Water thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering drastically during the winter months. [1, 3]

• Hardiness: These cacti are hardy across USDA Zones 8–10, but can tolerate some cold temperatures if kept dry. 

Handling and Toxicity

While the white hair is soft to the touch, these plants are still prickly pears. Hidden beneath the fuzzy exterior are tiny, barbed bristles called glochids that easily detach into the skin. Always handle the plant with thick gardening gloves or tongs. The cactus is otherwise non-toxic to humans and pets, though the spines can cause mechanical irritation. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]