A cactus originally introduced to France in the 16th century has become an invasive species, transforming hiking trails and coastal cliffs into impassable walls of vegetation in regions such as the Var and Pyrénées-Orientales. The Opuntia, commonly known as the barbary fig, was first brought to Europe in 1535 and later used for ornamental purposes in the 1990s. While Opuntia ficus-indica remains a common garden plant, species such as Opuntia stricta and Opuntia engelmannii have naturalized in the wild, taking advantage of the Mediterranean climate. The cactus spreads through its fruits, which are consumed by birds, and through natural budding of its fallen paddles, allowing it to regenerate easily from even small fragments. The dense thickets formed by the Opuntia suffocate indigenous vegetation, threatening local biodiversity. In the Calanques National Park, manual removals are conducted as part of the LIFE Habitats Calanques program, but the effectiveness of these efforts is limited by the plant's ability to regenerate and by varying regulatory statuses for different Opuntia species. In other countries, such as South Africa and Australia, biological control methods have been used, introducing natural enemies like the scale insect Dactylopius opuntiae and the moth Cactoblastis cactorum. These methods involve using predators or parasites that specifically target the cactus, helping to control its spread. In France, the National Mediterranean Botanical Conservatory of Porquerolles classifies different Opuntia species with varying statuses, including red list protected, gray list under evaluation, and black list for invasive species, which complicates eradication efforts. This classification system reflects the complex ecological and legal challenges of managing invasive species. Some species may be protected due to their ornamental value or other factors, even if they pose a threat to native ecosystems. The management of this invasive species remains a significant challenge for natural area managers, as they balance respect for biodiversity, regulatory constraints, and the limited effectiveness of manual removals. Efforts to control the spread of Opuntia require a combination of strategies, including public awareness, scientific research, and international collaboration. Despite these challenges, the goal remains clear: to protect native ecosystems and preserve the natural beauty of France’s landscapes.