Bastard Fig (Opuntia phaeacantha)

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

Opuntia phaeacantha is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in). 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, Shoots

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use. Juicy. They can be made into a jelly or baked with sugar, cinnamon etc. The fruit is pear-shaped and up to 8cm x 4cm. — Fruit - raw, cooked or dried for later use.; They can be made into a jelly or baked with sugar, cinnamon etc.; The fruit is pear-shaped and up to 8cm x 4cm.; Seed - dried, parched and ground into a meal, then added to flour and used in making cakes etc.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry prairies and open woodlands, often on sandy soils. (Zone 8)