The Desert Speaks

Prickly Pear: Cactus of Plenty

The hardy prickly pear can be found from Mexico into Canada. Not only is its range amazing, but so are its uses by people. It has been credited with lowering cholesterol, aiding digestion and helping control diabetes. Some people use its fruit (called tunas) and its pads (nopolitos) for food. It even serves as home to an insect used to make red dye that was valued as much as gold by the Spanish.

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