Prickly Pear (Opuntia fragilis)

Family: Cactaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Opuntia fragilis is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.3 m (1ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 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

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and gelatinous. — Leaf pads - cooked or raw.; The outer skin is peeled off before eating the pads.; Watery and very mucilaginous.; The following notes are for O.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry prairies, sandhills and rocks. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)