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Brazilian pricklypear

Scientific Name: Brasiliopuntia brasiliensis

Family: Cactaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Brazilian Prickly Pear (Brasiliopuntia brasiliensis)

The Brazilian Prickly Pear, scientifically known as Brasiliopuntia brasiliensis, is a fascinating plant with an unusual growth pattern. It is a type of cactus appreciated by gardeners and used in various applications, from culinary to ornamental.

Considerations for Pets

  • As the name suggests, this plant is a Prickly Pear, implying the presence of thorns or spines.

Considerations for Children

  • As the name suggests, this plant is a Prickly Pear, implying the presence of thorns or spines.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Accepted Scientific Name: Brasiliopuntia brasiliensis (Willd.) A. Berger
  • Common Names: Brazilian Prickly Pear, Brazilian Pricklypear
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Some texts simply list "prickly pear" as related to this species.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Originally from Brazil, the Brazilian Prickly Pear has been introduced to other regions, including Sydney, New South Wales.
  • It is also found in the Northeastern Province of Brazil.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • It can grow as an evergreen tree or a cactus.
  • It is described as having an "unusual growth pattern."

Cultivation

  • It thrives in hot, overhead sun.
  • It prefers dry conditions, tolerating extended periods without water and preferring drying out between waterings.
  • Hardiness zones: 9b-11

Quirky Facts

  • The fruit of prickly pear is used in cocktails, such as the "Brazilian Baroque" and a refreshing drink combining prickly pear pulp with cachaca, lime juice, and rose petal syrup.
  • Prickly pear is mentioned as being burned, scratched and cut out, used by artists.

Ecological Role

  • In some regions of Brazil, spineless varieties are cultivated in large plantations.

Uses

  • Prickly pear is used in traditional medicine in countries including Mediterranean nations, Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, China, and Korea.
  • The prickly pear fruit is used in cocktails.

Further Information

  • Discover Life provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Brasiliopuntia brasiliensis.
  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas from a community of gardeners.