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Hardy prickly pear is a prostrate or spreading cactus with oblong, flattened pads 2-6 in (5.1-15.2 cm) long, that bristle with sharp spines. (Some individuals don't have spines.) The showy flowers appear in late spring and early summer. They are bright yellow and 3-4 in (7.6-10.2 cm) across. The edible egg shaped fruits are called tunas and are reddish green, and 2-3 in (5.1-7.6 cm) long. The pulp is ruby red and tastes a little like watermelon.
There are over 200 species of prickly pear cactuses. Most are found in southwestern North America, Mexico, Central America and South America. Opuntia humifusa, the hardy prickly pear is native to the United States east of the Rockies, where it grows in dry, sandy soils in open pine woods, prairies and scrub.
Culture
Useful in mixed borders and natural areas. Hardy prickly pear is low-growing and its brilliant yellow flowers and meandering pads are most effective at the front of mixed plantings. It thrives in rock gardens and containers. Features The sweet juicy fruits of the prickly pear, called tunas, are very popular everywhere except the United States. In fact, annual worldwide commercial production of prickly pear tunas is more than twice that of strawberries, avocados, or apricots! The pads, called nopales, are a popular vegetable in Mexico and Central America. They are usually cooked but can be eaten raw. They taste a little like green beans.
Steve Christman 03/27/98; updated 12/6/99, 5/25/04, 2/4/05
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