Opuntia cacanapa stigma. The leaves are notable because they recurve strongly. 'Ellisiana' is a special selection of "O. cacanapa" that has no spines and no glochids. Thus, it is smooth to the touch. It is moderately cold hardy and is used in cactus gardens as far north as northern Virginia. Opuntia cacanapa Opuntia cacanapa is a cactus in the "Opuntia" genus. In the United States it is found on the South Texas Plains in Brewster County and adjacent counties to the southeast. It also occurs in nearby Mexico. The plants are variable in size, but can form shrubby trees from 1 to
Opuntia (seedless) cultivars are also available. In Mexico, prickly pears are often used to make appetizers, soups, and salads through entrees, vegetable dishes, and breads to desserts, beverages, candy, jelly, or drinks. The young stem segments, usually called "nopales", are also edible in most species of "Opuntia". They are commonly used in Mexican cuisine in dishes such as "huevos con nopales" (eggs with nopal), or "tacos de nopales". "Nopales" are also an important ingredient in New Mexican cuisine. "Opuntia ficus-indica" has been introduced to Europe, and flourishes in areas with a suitable climate, such as the south of France and southern