Common Names: Indian Fig

A bushy or tree-like cactus. The flowers and subsequently the fruits are produced on the margins of the joints. The fruit, often called prickly pear, differs in size according to variety and varies in color from yellow to orange, brick red to purple. The pulp is sweet, white to pink or red according to the plant. Usually the flesh encloses many small, edible seeds. The pads themselves can be eaten cooked as a vegetable.