Sonoran Native Virtual Tour - ENGELMANN PRICKLY PEAR

Opuntia engelmannii        |        Cactaceae       |       Engelmann prickly pear

Desert Ecology:

Although pollinated by bees and other insects the prickly pear also propagates vegetatively as its pads are modified stems which root readily upon contact with the soil. It is a host for cochineal6 and produces copious amounts of fruit which may persist into the fall and be eaten by and seeds dispersed by mammals, birds, rodents, desert tortoise, cactus beetle. Massive, mounding habit provides a safe habitat or shelter for desert animals as nopalitos, may help control blood sugar and reduce cholesterol. The boiled pads may also be used in adobe plaster, as was done in the restoration of San Xavier Mission.

Ethnobotany:

Prickly pear fruit have sweet red pulp used for jams, candies, juices, the pads, prepared as nopalitos, may help control blood sugar and reduce cholesterol. The boiled pads may also be used in adobe plaster, as was done in the restoration of San Xavier Mission.

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Additional Resources to Explore:

• Link to the Campus Arboretum Species Description page
• Link to the Campus Arboretum Sonoran Native Plants page (for booklet, self-guided campus tours, or docent led tour information)