Prickly Pear, also called tuna, will bloom and set fruit from early spring through the summer, depending on the variety.
Prickly Pear, which is classified as both a fruit and vegetable is delicious on the inside but vicious on the outside with its sharp needle-like thorns. Practically every part of the Prickly Pear Cactus has been used from prehistoric to today’s times, including the stems, flowers, leaves, seeds, and sap.
Packed with protein and vitamins, the leaves of the Prickly Pear Cactus have been used to treat diabetic issues, gastrointestinal problems, sunburn, and cold symptoms. The leaves of the Texas Prickly Pear Cactus, known as Nopalitos are a staple in many dishes. The deep red fruit or tuna is used to make jam, jelly, sorbet, wine, margaritas and yes Me & the Bees Lemonade.
Wondering where this plant can be found? It grows in the western areas of the United States as well as South America, Africa, Australia, and the Mediterranean.