Plains Prickly Pear (Opuntia polyacantha)

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

Opuntia polyacantha is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 3 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: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

sweetcorn seeds and then eaten. — Fruit - raw or dried for later use.; The dried fruit can be mixed into stews or used to thicken soups.; The fruit is dry and spiny.; It is up to 3cm long.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry prairies, sand hills and rocks. (Zone 3, Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7)