I have grown Opuntia outdoors for almost 15 yrs now. One particular variety, probably of hybrid garden origin, bloomed profusely this summer. Normally my prickly-pears bloom once in June, but this year it repeated like I've never seen, over many months. I suppose triggered by the drought? I don't know. Anyway, that got my attention, and rekindled an interest. Once upon a time I acquired some "Santa Rita" pollen and successfully crossed it with my plants. The babies were indeed purple, but I lost them... either through neglect or lack of cold hardiness. I'm not sure. But I'd like to try again. I'd also like to try crossing with other flower colors. Mine are yellow with orange centers. I'd love to try crossing with a bright pink, or a deep red, or even a white-flowered variety. I've been drooling over the photos on Opuntiads.Com. I thought it would be worthwhile to bring this up on PBS since so many of you probably grow such kinds of Opuntia. Thanks, Dennis in Cincinnati