Tree Chola (Opuntia imbricata)

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

Opuntia imbricata (Haw.) DC. is now classified as a synonym of Cylindropuntia imbricata (Haw.) F.M.Knuth.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

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

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Sweet and gelatinous. — Pads - cooked or raw.; Watery and very mucilaginous.; The prickles on the skin must be carefully removed before eating the pads.; The young pads can be split lengthways then dried and stored for winter use.

Habitat & North American Range

Sandy to gravelly soils. (Zone 8)