Prickly Pear Hardy Cactus

Opuntia tuna

A large padded prickly pear native cactus with yellow, similar to rose, spring flowers. Fruits ripen Oct-Nov in Zone 7 and can be harvested well into the winter. Plant spreads to make a clump. Medium sized red fruit 3" long. Remove small thorns from skin of fruit before handling or eating. Handle with barbeque tongs when planting. De-thorn pads are also used as a vegetable. For cactus "string beans", cut pads in long strips and grill or sauté. Fruit pulp is an excellent addition to fruit salads, lending its intense red color as well as flavor. A less care four season ornamental. Space 6' circle Zones 7-9 Zone 6 plant out of the winter prevailing wind.