# Opuntia

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"Cactus pears" redirects here. For the 2025 film whose title translates as "cactus pears", see [Sabar Bonda](/source/Sabar_Bonda).

Genus of cactus

Opuntia O. littoralis var. vaseyi Scientific classification Kingdom: Plantae Clade: Embryophytes Clade: Tracheophytes Clade: Spermatophytes Clade: Angiosperms Clade: Eudicots Order: Caryophyllales Family: Cactaceae Subfamily: Opuntioideae Tribe: Opuntieae Genus: Opuntia Mill. Species Many, see List of Opuntia species Synonyms Chaffeyopuntia Frič & Schelle Ficindica St.-Lag. Nopalea Salm-Dyck Phyllarthus Neck. ex M.Gómez (nom. inval.) Salmiopuntia Frič (nom. inval.) Tunas Lunell and see text

***Opuntia***, commonly called the **prickly pear cactus**, is a [genus](/source/Genus) of [flowering plants](/source/Flowering_plant) in the [cactus](/source/Cactus) [family](/source/Family_(taxonomy)) Cactaceae, many known for their flavorful fruit and showy flowers.[1] Cacti are native to the Americas, and are well adapted to [arid climates](/source/Aridity); however, they are still vulnerable to alterations in precipitation and temperature driven by climate change.[2] The plant has been introduced to Australia, southern Europe, the [Middle East](/source/Middle_East), and parts of Africa.

*Prickly pear* alone is also used to refer to the fruit, but may also be used for the plant itself; in addition, other names given to the plant and its specific parts include *tuna* (fruit), *sabra*, *sabbar*, *[nopal](/source/Nopal)* (pads, plural *nopales,* from the [Nahuatl](/source/Nahuatl) word *nōpalli*), nostle (fruit) from the Nahuatl word *nōchtli*, and paddle cactus. The genus is named for the [Ancient Greek](/source/Ancient_Greece) city of [Opus](/source/Opus%2C_Greece).[3] The fruit and stems are edible. The most common [culinary species](/source/Culinary_art) is the "Barbary fig" (*[Opuntia ficus-indica](/source/Opuntia_ficus-indica)*).

In places where they have been introduced outside their native range, some species in the genus *Opuntia* behave as aggressive [invasive species](/source/Invasive_species).[4]

## Description

Typical [morphology](/source/Morphology_(biology))

*[O. ficus-indica](/source/Opuntia_ficus-indica)* is a large, trunk-forming, segmented cactus that may grow to 5–7 metres (16–23 feet) with a crown of over 3 m (10 ft) in diameter and a trunk diameter of 1 m (1 yard).[1] [Cladodes](/source/Cladode) (large pads) are green to blue-green, bearing few spines up to 2.5 centimetres (1 inch) or may be spineless.[1] Prickly pears typically grow with flat, rounded cladodes (also called platyclades) containing large, smooth, fixed spines and small, hairlike prickles called [glochids](/source/Glochid) that readily adhere to skin or hair, then detach from the plant. The flowers are typically large, axillary, solitary, bisexual, and [epigynous](/source/Ovary_(botany)#Inferior_ovary), with a [perianth](/source/Perianth) consisting of distinct, spirally arranged [tepals](/source/Tepal) and a [hypanthium](/source/Hypanthium). The [stamens](/source/Stamen) are numerous and in spiral or whorled clusters, and the [gynoecium](/source/Gynoecium) has numerous inferior ovaries per carpel. Placentation is parietal, and the fruit is a berry with arillate seeds. Prickly pear species can vary greatly in habit; most are shrubs, but some, such as *[O. galapageia](/source/Opuntia_galapageia)* of the Galápagos, are trees.

### Growth

		- Bud appears

		- Bud grows

		- Bud begins pad transformation

		- Bud completes pad transformation

		- Pad continues growth

		- Edible pad (tender)

		- Mature pad

		- Mature pad with flower

## Taxonomy

*[O. lindheimeri](/source/Opuntia_lindheimeri)*, [Behbahan](/source/Behbahan)

*[O. cochenillifera](/source/Opuntia_cochenillifera)*

When [Carl Linnaeus](/source/Carl_Linnaeus) published *[Species Plantarum](/source/Species_Plantarum)* in 1753 – the starting point for modern botanical nomenclature – he placed all the species of cactus known to him in one genus, *Cactus*. In 1754, the Scottish botanist [Philip Miller](/source/Philip_Miller) divided them into several genera, including *Opuntia*. He distinguished the genus largely on the form of its flowers and fruits.[5]

Considerable variation of taxonomy occurs within *Opuntia* species, resulting in names being created for variants or subtypes within a species, and use of [DNA sequencing](/source/DNA_sequencing) to define and isolate various species.[1]

### Species

- *See [List of Opuntia species](/source/List_of_Opuntia_species)*

*Opuntia* [hybridizes](/source/Hybrid_(biology)) readily between species.[6] This can make classification difficult, yielding a reticulate phylogeny where different species come together in hybridization.[7] *Opuntia* also has a tendency for [polyploidy](/source/Polyploid). The ancestral diploid state was 2n=22, but many species are hexaploid (6n = 66) or octaploid (8n = 88).[7]

### Formerly in *Opuntia*

*[O. engelmannii](/source/Opuntia_engelmannii)* in front of a jumping cholla (*[Cylindropuntia fulgida](/source/Cylindropuntia_fulgida)*)

- *[Austrocylindropuntia](/source/Austrocylindropuntia)*

- *[Brasiliopuntia](/source/Brasiliopuntia)*

- *[Corynopuntia](/source/Corynopuntia)*

- *[Cylindropuntia](/source/Cylindropuntia)*

- *[Disocactus phyllanthoides](/source/Disocactus_phyllanthoides)* (as *O. speciosa*)

- *[Micropuntia](/source/Micropuntia)*

- *[Miqueliopuntia](/source/Miqueliopuntia)*

#### Chollas

Main article: [Cylindropuntia](/source/Cylindropuntia)

Chollas, now recognized to belong to the distinct genus *Cylindropuntia*, are distinguished by having cylindrical, rather than flattened, stem segments with large barbed spines. The stem joints of several species, notably the [jumping cholla](/source/Jumping_cholla) (*C. fulgida*), are very brittle on young stems, readily breaking off when the barbed spines stick to clothing or animal fur as a method of [vegetative reproduction](/source/Vegetative_reproduction). The barbed spines can remain embedded in the skin, causing discomfort and sometimes injury.

### Breeding

One of the ancient homes of the cactus pear, Mexico, ran a [breeding program](/source/Crop_breeding_program) in the 1960s.[8] This effort at the [Antonio Narro Agrarian Autonomous University](/source/Antonio_Narro_Agrarian_Autonomous_University) (Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, UAAAN) produced improvements in some traits including [cold-hardiness](/source/Cold-hardiness).[8]

### Chemistry

*Opuntia* contains diverse [phytochemicals](/source/Phytochemicals) in variable quantities, such as [polyphenols](/source/Polyphenol), [dietary minerals](/source/Mineral_(nutrient)), and [betalains](/source/Betalain).[9][10] Identified compounds under [basic research](/source/Basic_research) include [gallic acid](/source/Gallic_acid), [vanillic acid](/source/Vanillic_acid) and [catechins](/source/Catechins), as examples.[9] [O. ficus-indica](/source/Opuntia_ficus-indica) contains betalain, [betanin](/source/Betanin), and [indicaxanthin](/source/Indicaxanthin), with highest levels in their fruits.[10]

## Distribution and habitat

Like most true cactus species, prickly pears are native only to the [Americas](/source/Americas). Through human action, they have since been introduced to many other areas of the world.[1][7] Prickly pear species are found in abundance in [Mexico](/source/Mexico), especially in the central and western regions, and in the [Caribbean](/source/Caribbean) islands ([West Indies](/source/West_Indies)). In the [United States](/source/United_States), prickly pears are native to many areas of the arid, semi-arid, and drought-prone [Western](/source/Western_United_States) and [South Central](/source/South_Central_United_States) United States, including the lower elevations of the [Rocky Mountains](/source/Rocky_Mountains) and southern [Great Plains](/source/Great_Plains), where species such as *[O. phaeacantha](/source/Opuntia_phaeacantha)* and *[O. polyacantha](/source/Opuntia_polyacantha)* have become dominant, and to the desert Southwest, where several types are endemic. Prickly pear cactus is also native to sandy coastal beach scrub environments of the [East Coast](/source/East_Coast_of_the_United_States) from [Florida](/source/Florida) to southern [Connecticut](/source/Connecticut), where *[O. humifusa](/source/Opuntia_humifusa)*, *[O. stricta](/source/Opuntia_stricta)*, and *O. pusilla*, are found from the East Coast south into the [Caribbean](/source/Caribbean) and the [Bahamas](/source/Bahamas). Additionally, the eastern prickly pear is native to the midwestern "sand prairies" near major river systems, such as the Mississippi, Illinois, and Ohio rivers.[11] The plant also occurs naturally in hilly areas of southern [Illinois](/source/Illinois), and sandy or rocky areas of northern Illinois.[12]

*Opuntia* species are the most cold-tolerant of the lowland cacti, extending into western and southern [Canada](/source/Canada). One [subspecies](/source/Subspecies), [*O. fragilis* var. *fragilis*](/source/Opuntia_fragilis), has been found growing along the [Beatton River](/source/Beatton_River) in north-eastern [British Columbia](/source/British_Columbia), southwest of [Cecil Lake](/source/Cecil_Lake) at 56° 17' N latitude and 120° 39' W longitude.[13] Others are seen in the Kleskun Hills Natural Area of north-west [Alberta](/source/Alberta) at 55° 15' 30'' N latitude and 118° 30' 36'' W longitude.[14]

Prickly pears produce a fruit known as *tuna*, commonly eaten in [Mexico](/source/Mexico) and in the [Mediterranean region](/source/Mediterranean_region), which is also used to make *[aguas frescas](/source/Aguas_frescas)*.[1] The fruit can be red, wine-red, green, or yellow-orange. In the [Galápagos Islands](/source/Gal%C3%A1pagos_Islands), the Galápagos prickly pear, [*O. galapageia*](/source/Opuntia_galapageia), has previously been treated as a number of different species, but is now only divided into varieties and subvarieties.[15] Most of these are confined to one or a few islands, so they have been described as "an excellent example of [adaptive radiation](/source/Adaptive_radiation)".[16] On the whole, islands with tall, trunked varieties are also the home of giant tortoises, whereas islands lacking tortoises have low or prostrate forms of *Opuntia*. Prickly pears are a prime source of food for the common giant tortoises in the Galápagos Islands, so they are important in the food web.

[Charles Darwin](/source/Charles_Darwin) was the first to note that the cacti have [thigmotactic](/source/Thigmotaxis) [anthers](/source/Anther). When the anthers are touched, they curl over, depositing their [pollen](/source/Pollen) on the [pollinator](/source/Pollinator). That movement can be seen by gently poking the anthers of an open *Opuntia* [flower](/source/Flower). The same trait has [evolved convergently](/source/Convergent_evolution) in other genera (e.g. *[Lophophora](/source/Lophophora)*).

Natural distribution of the plant occurs via consumption and associated [seed dispersal](/source/Seed_dispersal) by many animals, including [antelopes](/source/Antelope), nonhuman [primates](/source/Primate), [elephants](/source/Elephant), birds, and humans.[1] When ingested by elephants, the sharp components of the plant cause harm to the mouth, stomach, and intestines.[17]

Prickly pears (mostly *O. stricta*) were originally imported into Europe during the 16th century.[1] They are now found in the Mediterranean region of [Northern Africa](/source/Northern_Africa), especially in [Algeria](/source/Algeria), [Morocco](/source/Morocco) and [Tunisia](/source/Tunisia), where they grow all over the countryside, and in parts of [Southern Europe](/source/Southern_Europe), especially [Spain](/source/Spain), where they can be found in the east, south-east, and south of the country, and also in [Malta](/source/Malta), where they grow all over the islands, and in southern [Italy](/source/Italy), especially in Sicily and Sardinia. They can be found in enormous numbers in parts of [South Africa](/source/South_Africa), where they were introduced from South America.[1]

The prickly pear is considered an [invasive species](/source/Invasive_species) in [Australia](/source/Prickly_pears_in_Australia), [Ethiopia](/source/Ethiopia), [South Africa](/source/South_Africa), and [Hawaii](/source/Hawaii), among other locations.[1]

### Australia

The first introduction of prickly pears into [Australia](/source/Australia) is ascribed to the founding governor of the New South Wales colony, [Arthur Phillip](/source/Arthur_Phillip), and the earliest European colonists, in 1788. Brought from [Brazil](/source/Brazil) to [Sydney](/source/Sydney), they were most likely *O. monacantha*. That variety did not spread beyond the east coast. However, a number of other types of prickly pear were introduced to Australian gardens in the mid-19th century. The cactus was also used as agricultural fencing and a feedstock for animals in times of drought,[18][19] as well as in an attempt to establish a [cochineal](/source/Cochineal) dye industry.

The cactus became a widespread [invasive weed](/source/Invasive_weed) in the dry interior climate west of the [Great Dividing Range](/source/Great_Dividing_Range), in New South Wales and [Queensland](/source/Queensland),[18] eventually converting 260,000 square kilometres (101,000 mi2) of farming land into an impenetrable green jungle of prickly pears in places 6 m (20 ft) high. Scores of farmers were driven off their land by what they called the "green hell", and their abandoned homes were crushed under the cactus growth, which advanced at a rate of 400,000 hectares (1 million acres) per year.[19]

In 1919, the [Australian federal government](/source/Government_of_Australia) established the Commonwealth Prickly Pear Board to coordinate efforts with state governments to eradicate the weed. Early attempts, comprising mechanical removal and poisonous chemicals failed. As a last resort, biological control was attempted.[19] In 1925, the *[Cactoblastis cactorum](/source/Cactoblastis_cactorum)* [moth](/source/Moth) was introduced from [South America](/source/South_America), and its larvae rapidly began to control the infestation. [Alan Dodd](/source/Alan_Parkhurst_Dodd), the son of the noted entomologist [Frederick Parkhurst Dodd](/source/Frederick_Parkhurst_Dodd), was a leading official in combating the prickly pear. A memorial hall in [Boonarga, Queensland](/source/Boonarga%2C_Queensland), commemorates the efforts of the moth.[19] The release of cochineal insects, which eat the cactus and simultaneously kill the plant, has also proven an effective measure for combating its spread.[20]

### South Africa

Main article: [Prickly pears in South Africa](/source/Prickly_pears_in_South_Africa)

In [South Africa](/source/South_Africa), many species of Opuntia are considered highly invasive including *O. aurantiaca*, *O. elata*, *O. engelmannii*, *O. ficus-indica*, *O. humifusa*, *O. leucotricha*, *O. microdasys*, *O. monacantha*, *O. pubescens*, *O. robusta*, *O. salmiana*, *O. spinulifera*, *O. stricta* and *O. tomentosa*. These species are classified as Category 1 invaders, and targeted for national eradication; most activities with regards to the species are prohibited (such as importing, propagating, introducing, translocating or trading).[3] It was also found that invasive Opuntia species have adverse effects on the beetle population in the [Kruger National Park](/source/Kruger_National_Park), and widespread invasions alter soil characteristics.[4]

## Ecology

See also: [Prickly pears in Australia](/source/Prickly_pears_in_Australia) and [Prickly pears in South Africa](/source/Prickly_pears_in_South_Africa)

*O. ficus-indica* thrives in regions with mild winters having a prolonged dry spell followed by hot summers with occasional rain and relatively low humidity.[1] A mean annual rainfall of 350–500 millimetres (14–19+1⁄2 in) provides good growth rates.[1] *O. ficus-indica* proliferates in various soils ranging from sub[acid](/source/Acid) to sub[alkaline](/source/Alkaline), with clay content not exceeding 15–20% and the soil well drained.[1] The shallow root system enables the plant to grow in shallow, loose soils, such as on mountain slopes.[1] *Opuntia* spreads into large clonal colonies, which contribute to its being considered a [noxious weed](/source/Noxious_weed) in some places.[1][6]

*Opuntia* species are primarily pollinated by [bees](/source/Bee), including some bee genera (*[Diadasia](/source/Diadasia)* and *[Lithurgus](/source/Lithurgus)*) that contain specialist pollinators ([oligoleges](/source/Oligolecty)) that exclusively visit *Opuntia*.[21] Only a few *Opuntia* species, such as *[O. cochenillifera](/source/Opuntia_cochenillifera)* and *[O. stenopetala](/source/Opuntia_stenopetala)*, are pollinated by [hummingbirds](/source/Hummingbird).[21][22]

Animals that eat *Opuntia* include the [prickly pear island snail](/source/Prickly_pear_island_snail) and *[Cyclura](/source/Cyclura)* rock iguanas. The fruit are relished by many arid-land animals, chiefly birds, which thus help distribute the seeds. *Opuntia* [pathogens](/source/Pathogen) include the sac fungus *[Colletotrichum coccodes](/source/Colletotrichum_coccodes)* and Sammons' Opuntia virus. The ant, *Crematogaster opuntiae*, and spider, *Theridion opuntia*, are named because of their association with the prickly pear cactus.

## Toxicity

Although the plants are edible, the pointed hairs should not be eaten, and similar species with milky sap are suspect.[23]

## Uses

Prickly pear, raw Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz) Energy 172 kJ (41 kcal) Carbohydrates 9.6 g Dietary fiber 3.6 g Fat 0.5 g Protein 0.7 g Vitamins and minerals Vitamins Quantity %DV† Vitamin A equiv. 3% 25 μg Riboflavin (B2) 8% 0.1 mg Niacin (B3) 3% 0.5 mg Vitamin B6 6% 0.1 mg Folate (B9) 2% 6 μg Vitamin C 16% 14.0 mg Vitamin E 0% 0 mg Minerals Quantity %DV† Calcium 4% 56 mg Iron 2% 0.3 mg Magnesium 20% 85 mg Phosphorus 2% 24 mg Potassium 7% 220 mg Zinc 1% 0.1 mg Other constituents Quantity Water 88 g Full Link to USDA Database entry †Percentages estimated using US recommendations for adults,[24] except for potassium, which is estimated based on expert recommendation from the National Academies.[25]

### Nutrition

Raw opuntia leaves are 88% water, 10% [carbohydrates](/source/Carbohydrate), and less than 1% both of [protein](/source/Protein_(nutrient)) and [fat](/source/Fat) (table). In a reference amount of 100 grams (3.5 oz), raw leaves provide 41 [calories](/source/Calorie) of [food energy](/source/Food_energy), 16% of the [Daily Value](/source/Daily_Value) (DV) for [vitamin C](/source/Vitamin_C), and 20% DV for [magnesium](/source/Magnesium_in_biology), with no other [micronutrients](/source/Micronutrient) in significant content (table).

### Regional food uses

Main article: [Nopal](/source/Nopal)

See also: [Cactus fries](/source/Cactus_fries) and [List of edible cacti](/source/List_of_edible_cacti)

Close-up of prickly pear fruit: Apart from the large spines, the glochids (the fine prickles, or bristles) may dislodge and cause skin or eye irritation.

The fruit of prickly pears, commonly called cactus fruit, cactus fig, Indian fig (meaning "[Native American](/source/Indigenous_peoples_of_the_Americas)", not "of [India](/source/India)"), *nopales*[26] or *tuna* in Spanish,[27] is edible, although it must be peeled carefully to remove the small spines on the outer skin before consumption.[28] If the outer layer is not properly removed, [glochids](/source/Glochid) can be ingested, causing discomfort of the throat, lips, and tongue, as the small spines are easily lodged in the skin. [Native Americans](/source/Indigenous_peoples_of_the_Americas) like the [Tequesta](/source/Tequesta) would roll the fruit around in a suitable medium (e.g. [grit](https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/grit)) to "[sand](/source/Sandpaper)" off the glochids. Alternatively, rotating the fruit in the flame of a campfire or torch has been used to remove the glochids. Today, [parthenocarpic](/source/Parthenocarpy) (seedless) [cultivars](/source/Cultivar) are also available. The seeds can be used for flour.[29]

In Mexico, prickly pears are often used to make appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, vegetable dishes, breads, desserts, beverages, [candy](/source/Candy), [jelly](/source/Fruit_preserves), and drinks.[26][30][31] The young [stem](/source/Plant_stem) segments, usually called pads or *nopales*, are also edible in most species of *Opuntia*.[26][28] They are commonly used in [Mexican cuisine](/source/Mexican_cuisine) in dishes such as *huevos con nopales* ([eggs](/source/Egg_(food)) with nopal), or *[tacos](/source/Taco) de nopales*. *Nopales* are also an important ingredient in [New Mexican cuisine](/source/New_Mexican_cuisine).[26] In 2009 it was introduced as a cheaper alternative to corn for the production of tortillas and other corn products.[32] They can also be pickled.[29]

*Opuntia ficus-indica* has been introduced to Europe, and flourishes in areas with a suitable climate, such as the south of [France](/source/France) and southern [Italy](/source/Italy): In [Sicily](/source/Sicily), they are referred to as *fichi d'India* (Italian literal translation of Indian fig) or *ficurinia* ([Sicilian language](/source/Sicilian_language) literal translation of Indian fig). In [Sardinia](/source/Sardinia), they are called *figumorisca* ("Moorish figs"), the same denomination they receive along the [Catalan](/source/Catalan_language)-speaking regions of the Western Mediterranean, *figa de moro*. They can be found also in the [Struma River](/source/Struma_River) in [Bulgaria](/source/Bulgaria), in southern [Portugal](/source/Portugal) and [Madeira](/source/Madeira) (where they are called *tabaibo*, *figo tuno*, or "Indian figs"), in [Andalusia](/source/Andalusia), [Spain](/source/Spain) (where they are known as *higos chumbos*). In [Greece](/source/Greece), it grows in such places as the [Peloponnese](/source/Peloponnese) region, [Ionian Islands](/source/Ionian_Islands), or [Crete](/source/Crete), and its figs are known as *frangosyka* (Frankish, i.e. Western European, figs) or *pavlosyka* ("Paul's figs"), depending on the region. In [Albania](/source/Albania), they are called *fiq deti* translated as "sea figs", and are present in the south-west shore. The figs are also grown in [Cyprus](/source/Cyprus), where they are known as *papoutsósyka* or *babutsa* ("shoe figs").

The prickly pear also grows widely on the islands of Malta, where it is enjoyed by the Maltese as a typical summer fruit (known as *bajtar tax-xewk*, literally "spiny figs"), as well as being used to make the popular liqueur known as *[bajtra](/source/Bajtra)*.[33] The prickly pear is so commonly found in the Maltese islands, it is often used as a dividing wall between many of Malta's characteristic terraced fields in place of the usual rubble walls.

The prickly pear was introduced to [Eritrea](/source/Eritrea) during the period of Italian colonisation between 1890 and 1940. It is locally known there as *beles* and is abundant during the late summer and early autumn (late July through September). The *beles* from the holy monastery of [Debre Bizen](/source/Debre_Bizen) is said to be particularly sweet and juicy.

In [Morocco](/source/Morocco), [Tunisia](/source/Tunisia), [Libya](/source/Libya), [Saudi Arabia](/source/Saudi_Arabia), [Jordan](/source/Jordan), and other parts of [North Africa](/source/North_Africa) and the [Middle East](/source/Middle_East), prickly pears of the yellow and orange varieties are grown by the side of farms, beside railway tracks and other otherwise non[cultivable](/source/Cultivable) land. It is sold in summer by street vendors, and is considered a refreshing fruit for that season.

*Tungi* is the local [St. Helenian](/source/Saint_Helena) name for cactus pears. The plants ([Indian fig opuntia](/source/Opuntia_ficus-indica)) were originally brought to the island by the colonial ivory traders from East Africa in the 1850s. *Tungi* cactus now grows wild in the dry coastal regions of the island. Three principal cultivars of *tungi* grow on the island: the "English" with yellow fruit; the "Madeira" with large red fruit; and the small, firm "spiny red". Tungi also gives its name to a local Spirit distilled at The St Helena distillery at Alarm Forest, the most remote distillery in the world, made entirely from the opuntia cactus.

Cactus pear is being promoted and researched by [ICARDA](/source/ICARDA) for [India](/source/India), [Jordan](/source/Jordan), and [Pakistan](/source/Pakistan) especially.[34] It is an underappreciated crop in these countries and has undergone recent expansion in cultivated area.[34] In some particularly promising areas of India and Pakistan it has given a 30% increase in [milk](/source/Milk) yield /[hectare](/source/Hectare) (/[acre](/source/Acre)).[34]

### Folk medicine

In Mexican [folk medicine](/source/Folk_medicine), its pulp and juice are considered treatments for [wounds](/source/Wounds) and [inflammation](/source/Inflammation) of the [digestive](/source/Digestive_tract) and [urinary tracts](/source/Urinary_tract),[35] although there is no [high-quality evidence](/source/Evidence-based_medicine) for any clinical benefit of using opuntia for these purposes.

Prior to modern medicine, Native Americans and Mexicans primarily used *Opuntia* as a coagulant for open wounds, using the pulp of the stem either by splitting the stem or scraping out the pulp.[36]

### Other uses

#### Dye production

Main article: [Cochineal](/source/Cochineal)

Traditional "Zapotec nest" farming of the cochineal scale insect on *O. ficus-indica*, [Oaxaca](/source/Oaxaca)

*[Dactylopius coccus](/source/Dactylopius_coccus)* is a [scale insect](/source/Scale_insect) from which [cochineal](/source/Cochineal) dye is derived. *D. coccus* itself is native to tropical and subtropical [South America](/source/South_America) and [Mexico](/source/Mexico). This insect, a primarily [sessile](/source/Sessility_(zoology)) [parasite](/source/Parasite), lives on [cacti](/source/Cactus) from the genus *Opuntia*, feeding on moisture and nutrients in the cactus sap. The insect produces [carminic acid](/source/Carminic_acid), which deters predation by other insects. The carminic acid can be extracted from the insect's body and eggs to make the red dye.

Cochineal is used primarily as a [red](/source/Red) [food colouring](/source/Food_colouring) and for [cosmetics](/source/Cosmetics).[26] The cochineal dye was used by the [Aztec](/source/Aztec) and [Maya](/source/Maya_civilization) peoples of Central and North America, and by the [Inca](/source/Inca) in South America. Produced almost exclusively in [Oaxaca](/source/Oaxaca%2C_Oaxaca), Mexico, by indigenous producers, cochineal became Mexico's second-most valued export after silver.[37] The dyestuff was consumed throughout Europe, and was so highly valued, its price was regularly quoted on the London and Amsterdam Commodity Exchanges.

The biggest producers of cochineal are [Peru](/source/Peru), the [Canary Islands](/source/Canary_Islands), and [Chile](/source/Chile). Current health concerns over artificial food additives have renewed the popularity of cochineal dyes, and the increased demand is making cultivation for insect farming an attractive opportunity in other regions, such as in Mexico, where cochineal production had declined again owing to the numerous natural enemies of the scale insect.[38]

Apart from cochineal, the red dye [betanin](/source/Betanin) can be extracted from some *Opuntia* plants themselves.[26] The [Navajo](/source/Navajo) people have traditionally produced a reddish dye from the fruit of the prickly pear cactus, used in dyeing woolen yarns.[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*]

#### Animal fodder

Cactus is used as a fodder crop for animals in arid and dryland regions.[39] Some farmers prepare it with a [fermentation](/source/Fermentation) method to remove the spines and increase digestibility.[40]

#### Vegan leather

The thick skin of nopal cactus can be harvested as an environmentally-friendly leather replacement.[41]

#### Biofuel

[Bioethanol](/source/Bioethanol) can be produced from some *Opuntia* species.[42]

## Culture

The prickly pear cactus has been used for centuries both as a food source and a natural fence that keeps in livestock and marks the boundaries of family lands.[26] They are resilient and often grow back following removal.[26]

The emblem of Malta from 1975 to 1988

The 1975–1988 version of the [emblem of Malta](/source/Coat_of_arms_of_Malta#Emblem_between_1975_and_1988) also featured a prickly pear, along with a [traditional *dgħajsa*](/source/Dg%C4%A7ajsa), a shovel and pitchfork, and the rising sun.[43]

The prickly pear is the official plant of Texas by legislation from 1995.[44]

The cactus lends its name to a song by British jazz/classical group [Portico Quartet](/source/Portico_Quartet).[*[citation needed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed)*] The song "My Rival", on the album *[Gaucho](/source/Gaucho_(album))* by the American jazz-pop group [Steely Dan](/source/Steely_Dan) begins with the words, "The wind was driving in my face/The smell of prickly pear."[45]

In the fall of 1961, Cuba had its troops plant a 13-kilometre (8 mi) barrier of *Opuntia* cactus along the northeastern section of the 28-kilometre (17 mi) fence surrounding the [Guantanamo Bay Naval Base](/source/Guantanamo_Bay_Naval_Base) to stop Cubans from escaping Cuba to take refuge in the United States.[46] This was dubbed the "Cactus Curtain", an allusion to [Europe](/source/Europe)'s [Iron Curtain](/source/Iron_Curtain)[47] and the [Bamboo Curtain](/source/Bamboo_Curtain) in [East Asia](/source/East_Asia).

Uruguayan-born footballer [Bruno Fornaroli](/source/Bruno_Fornaroli) is nicknamed prickly pear due to his sometimes spiky hairstyles.[48]

### Mexico

The [coat of arms of Mexico](/source/Coat_of_arms_of_Mexico)

See also: [Coat of arms of Mexico](/source/Coat_of_arms_of_Mexico)

The coat of arms of Mexico depicts a Mexican golden [eagle](/source/Eagle_(heraldry)), perched upon an *Opuntia* [cactus](/source/Cactus), holding a [rattlesnake](/source/Rattlesnake). According to the official history of Mexico, the coat of arms is inspired by an [Aztec](/source/Aztec) legend regarding the founding of [Tenochtitlan](/source/Tenochtitlan). The Aztecs, then a nomadic tribe, were wandering throughout Mexico in search of a divine sign to indicate the precise spot upon which they were to build their capital. Their god [Huitzilopochtli](/source/Huitzilopochtli) had commanded them to find an [eagle](/source/Eagle) devouring a snake, perched atop a cactus that grew on a rock submerged in a lake. After 200 years of wandering, they found the promised sign on a small island in the swampy [Lake Texcoco](/source/Lake_Texcoco). There they founded their new capital, [Tenochtitlan](/source/Tenochtitlan). The cactus (*O. ficus-indica*; [Nahuatl](/source/Nahuatl): *tenochtli*), full of fruits, is the symbol for the island of Tenochtitlan.

### Israeli-born Jews

Main article: [Sabra (person)](/source/Sabra_(person))

The cactus fig is called ***tzabar*** in [Hebrew](/source/Hebrew) ([Hebrew](/source/Hebrew_language): צבר). This cactus is also the origin of the term *[sabra](/source/Sabra_(person))* used to describe any [Jew born in Israel](/source/Israeli_Jews). The allusion is to a thorny, spiky skin on the outside, but a soft, sweet interior, suggesting, though the [Israeli](/source/Israel) sabras are rough on the outside, they are sweet and sensitive once one gets to know them.[49][50] This term is derived from the related Arabic word for this cactus صبار *ṣubbār*, where the related term *sabr* also translates to "patience" or "tenacity".[51] According to a modern study[52], prickly pear was likely introduced to what is now the Land of Israel (the Levant) around the 18th century.

### Palestinians

The prickly pear is also considered a [national symbol of Palestine](/source/List_of_national_symbols_of_Palestine), having been grown across [historic Palestine](/source/Palestine_(region)) for centuries, traditionally being used to mark out land boundaries. The plant is seen by Palestinians as representing qualities of resilience and patience, as represented by the Palestinian proverb *saber as-sabbar* ("the patience of the cactus"). Its use as an emblem of Palestine has been traced to a painting produced by the artist [Zulfa al-Sa'di](/source/Zulfa_al-Sa'di) in the 1930s. Its visibility was renewed by historical research carried out in the 1980s and 1990s on the [Nakba](/source/Nakba), which revealed that many [destroyed Palestinian villages](/source/List_of_towns_and_villages_depopulated_during_the_1947%E2%80%931949_Palestine_war) subsequently saw regrowth of the cacti.[53] The plant's ability to thrive anywhere is also considered to reflect the experiences of the [Palestinian diaspora](/source/Palestinian_diaspora).[54]

## Gallery

		- Prickly pear fruit at a market in [Zacatecas](/source/Zacatecas%2C_Zacatecas), Mexico

		- Close-up of fruit

		- A box of prickly pear candy, often sold in Southwest U.S. gift shops

		- [Nopales](/source/Nopal)

## See also

- [Pitaya](/source/Pitaya)

- [Sabra (character)](/source/Sabra_(character))

- [Sabra (person)](/source/Sabra_(person))

## References

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## External links

- Media related to [*Opuntia*](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Opuntia) at Wikimedia Commons

- Data related to [*Opuntia*](https://species.wikimedia.org/wiki/Opuntia) at Wikispecies

- [Argiope argentata#Habitat and distribution](/source/Argiope_argentata#Habitat_and_distribution)

- [Prickly Pear Control Oral History](https://onesearch.slq.qld.gov.au/permalink/61SLQ_INST/11l3i0/alma99260193402061), [State Library of Queensland](/source/State_Library_of_Queensland). Oral history and documents relating to Opuntia in [Queensland, Australia](/source/Queensland%2C_Australia)

Taxon identifiers Opuntia Wikidata: Q158991 Wikispecies: Opuntia APDB: 193208 APNI: 55057 BioLib: 3449 CoL: 69B3 eFloraSA: Opuntia EoL: 47134134 EPPO: 1OPUG FloraBase: 21796 FNA: 123045 FoAO2: Opuntia FoC: 123045 GBIF: 3084187 GRIN: 8512 iNaturalist: 47902 IPNI: 30002080-2 IRMNG: 1019831 ITIS: 19686 NCBI: 106975 NZOR: 1cf6b7bd-367c-4c6d-86c6-aea3c344b501 Open Tree of Life: 151083 PLANTS: OPUNT POWO: urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30002080-2 Tropicos: 40032719 VASCAN: 1485 VicFlora: 922d675a-e4c3-4ab1-8461-6de25f55905d WFO: wfo-4000027003 WoRMS: 415722

Authority control databases International GND National United States Israel Other Yale LUX

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Opuntia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opuntia) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opuntia?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.