Prickly Pear

History and origin

The prickly pear, once a staple food of indigenous peoples in the Americas, particularly in Mexico, has spread around the world, adapting particularly well to the dry climate of the Mediterranean. Its name comes from the coasts of the Maghreb, called “Barbary” since the Middle Ages. In the Maghreb, it is known under the name “Hindi”, the locals believing that it came from India. This exotic fruit, appreciated for its ability to thrive in arid conditions, continues to play an important role in the diet and culture of the regions where it is established.

Variety and cultivation

The prickly pear, a 3 to 5 meter cactus, has “racket” stems which store water and bear fruit. In July-August, its yellow flowers transform into prickly pears, with varied colors (yellow to bright red) and equipped with glochids. It thrives in arid soils, with major producers including Mexico, Spain and Morocco.

Did you know?

The prickly pear has an important place in the Mesoamerican mythologies of central Mexico. It is notably the symbol of the hearts of the victims of human sacrifices in the legend of the founding of the Aztec capital Mexico-Tenochtitlan.