Pricklypear

There are 10 recognized varieties of purple-
fruited pricklypear and these may hybridize with
other Opuntia species. This would explain some
of the previous taxonomic confusion. "Brown-
spined" pricklypear (Opuntia phaeacantha) is
likely the most widespread and common prickly-
pear in the southwest. The bright yellow to pink-
orange flowers appear in May to June. The purplish,
maroon, fleshy fruit (tunas) are relished by
people and eagerly devoured by javelina, pack
rats and coyotes. Livestock will graze the pads
and fruit when the spines have been burned off.
Adapted to a variety of habitats throughout the
western portion of Texas.