Prickly pear - Opuntia ficus-indica

Common Name :	Cactus, Indian fig opuntia.
Binomial Name :	Opuntia ficus-indica
Family :	Cactaceae
Bangla Name :	Foni monosha (ফণীমনসা).
Photo Taken :	Nepal

In Bangladesh this plant is known as Fonimonosha. Common name is Cactus, Prickly pear, Indian fig opunita. Botanic name of the plant is Opuntia ficus-indica. As this is a cactus, it belongs to the cactus plant family Cactaceae. It is also found in other parts of North America, as well as in many other regions around the world where it has been introduced. The plant is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid climates and has become naturalized in various regions due to its hardiness and ability to thrive in different environments.

Prickly pear is a succulent shrub-like plant that can grow to impressive heights, reaching up to 3 to 6 meters in height. The stems of Opuntia ficus-indica are composed of flat, segmented pads that are oval or elliptical in shape, covered in clusters of sharp spines. These spines serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores and provide protection for the plant. The pads are thick and fleshy, storing water to survive in arid conditions. The plant has a distinct branching habit, with new segments emerging from the base and forming dense clumps or colonies over time.

The flowers are large, showy, and typically appear in shades of yellow, orange, or red. They have numerous petals and a bright, contrasting center, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowers usually emerge from the edges of the pads, creating a stunning display against the green backdrop of the cactus. Following successful pollination, Opuntia ficus-indica develops edible fruits known as prickly pears. The fruits are oval to pear-shaped, with a thick, spiny skin that protects the juicy and sweet flesh inside. The color of the fruits can vary, ranging from green to yellow or reddish-purple when fully ripe. Prickly pears are enjoyed by humans and various animals, and they are often used in culinary preparations, juices, and jams.

This plant is commonly cultivated by people in various regions around the world. Its edible fruits are highly valued for their sweet and juicy flesh. Apart from consumption, various parts of the plant, including the pads, fruit, and flowers, have been traditionally used in folk medicine.


Photos of these Cactus flowers (Opuntia ficus-indica) were taken from Godawari botanical garden, Nepal during April 2014.


Written by Lonely Traveler,
For blog icflora.blogspot.com