Pricklypear Cactus

(Opuntia humifusa)

Sharp spines singly or in pairs (sometimes absent) can cause a painful puncture. Unnoticed but equally painful are the tiny spines that frequent this plant. Striking yellow flowers bloom in the spring and summer. All parts are a favorite food of gopher tortoises. Green fruit ripen to a reddish color. The ripened fruit can be eaten raw or made into jelly. The paddles can be eaten after removing the spines.

Information Provided by the Friends of Barefoot Beach Preserve
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