Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica)

Family: Cactaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Opuntia ficus-indica is an evergreen Perennial growing to 5 m (16ft) by 5 m (16ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Berries, Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and gelatinous. — Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use.; Sweet and gelatinous.; Very refreshing, they are somewhat like a watermelon in flavour.; The fruits are up to 10cm long and 9cm wide.

Habitat & North American Range

Naturalized in the Mediterranean where it grows in dry arid and rocky places. (Zone 8)