Edible Cacti

Hello again hotline.
I'm wondering what types of cacti out there are edible and which are not and how to tell the difference. I'm talking about the pads moreso than the fruit. I know prickly pear but is that one type or does that contain a family of cacti?

BurgeoningBaker
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2 Comments

BurgeoningBaker
BurgeoningBaker June 1, 2012
Thank you.
 
Maedl
Maedl May 31, 2012
Here is an article to get you started, along with a source for further reference: http://tucsoncitizen.com/wryheat/2009/08/01/edible-desert-plants-barrel-cactus-fruit/

You might also check Gary Nabhan's work. He has worked with the local Indians on recovering native foods and might have written about the topic.
 
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