P is for Prickly Pear

The Prickly Pear cactus is a very well known and versatile cactus.

There are several different varieties of Prickly Pear cactus each growing to different sizes. The most common species in the Sonoran Desert is the Engelmann Prickly Pear which grows up to 5 feet tall and can grow to a width of 10-15 feet.

The Prickly Pear cactus has pretty flowers, but what it is really known for is its fruit. Prickly Pear fruit (also called Tuna) can be eaten, minus the thick outer skin. The fruit can be eaten raw, just chill in the refrigerator for a few hours, or it can be used to make jams, jellies and even candy. Even the cactus pads can be eaten.

Photo by labrynna