- 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 southern Arizona!