Opuntia sp – Prickly Pear 1gallon

Opuntia species in Southern California carried by Walker’s Wildlands are currently Opuntia Littoralis, Coastal Prickly pear, and Opuntia Oricola, Chaparral Prickly Pear.  These two species can be difficult to distinguish, especially when they are not in bloom, or in fruit, as there are then fewer characteristics to look at.  As a result we will simply list both species under this entry of Opuntia for now to avoid mislabeling species.  Both are a characteristic part of local flora from coastal sage to Chaparral, and from the coast to inland. Of course you are more likely to see Coastal prickly pear rather than Chaparral the closer you are to the ocean.

These are amazing species for culinary uses, besides feeding birds and wild animals of all types, including our native Cochineal insects.  The young pads can be cleared of spines and eaten as Nopales, raw in salads and salsas, or grilled as preferred preparations.  The fruit however is likely the star of the show with a light fresh flavor reminiscent of watermelon or dragon fruit.  Also one of the largest native fruits to our region in terms of size. Excellent landscape plants for the iconic look, habitat and culinary value.