Western Prickly Pear (Opuntia littoralis)

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

Opuntia littoralis is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 1.2 m (4ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is not frost tender. It is in leaf all year. 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. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils.

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. — The following notes are for O.; They almost certainly also apply to this species.; Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use.; Sweet and gelatinous.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry soils in coastal sage scrub from near sea level to elevations of 400 metres. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)