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- The prickly pear fruit is the edible, vibrant, colorful fruit of the Opuntia (Prickly Pear) cactus - Prickly pear fruits are typically oval-shaped, ranging in size from 2 to 5 inches - The skin can be deep red, bright magenta, golden yellow, or even green, and is covered with small, barbed spines called glochids - The flavor is often described as a blend of watermelon, bubblegum, and berries, with a sweet and subtly floral or slightly tart taste, depending on ripeness and variety ... some compare it to melon with hints of strawberry or raspberry - The flesh is juicy and has small, hard, edible seeds that can be swallowed or removed ... the texture can be similar to pineapple - Ripe prickly pear fruits can be found starting in July ... the peak season for harvesting prickly pear fruit is usually in late August and early September - Removed of spines and strained into juice, prickly pear fruit is often used to make syrups, jellies, candies and more ... popular commodities in southe...