| Prickly Pear | |
| Opuntia ficus-indica | |
| a.k.a. Indian Fig, Tuna, Mission Cactus |
Red, yellow, and sometimes orange colored fruit with watery pulp usually about the same color as the skin. Fruits vary between plants, but are often mildly sweet and flavorful.
Description: Bushy cactus, to 10-15ft. Most varieties are spineless, all are near spineless but do contain small sticky hairs called glochids which may fall off when the fruit is ripe, but care should be taken when handling.
Hardiness: The prickly pear is hardy to 15F and can withstand temperatures well above 100F, as it is adapted to desert conditions.
Sunset Zones: 8,9, 12-24 , H2
USDA: 8b-10
Growing Environment: It is an exceedingly easy plant to grow in drier climates, and requires almost no water once established. Grow in full sun.
Propagation: By seed, or by stem cuttings.
Uses: Eaten fresh, used in juices. The cactus pads are also eaten as a vegetable.
Native Range: Native to Mexico. Has naturalized throughout the Americas, including portions of Southern California and Arizona.