The Tuna or Prickly Pear in California

Abstract

Although native to Mexico, whence it was taken to Europe, for centuries the prickly pear or tuna fruit of several species of the cactus (particularly Opuntia tuna) has been highly esteemed by peoples of the Mediterranean basin countries, where it is a common and important item in their diet. Primarily a curiosity for most people in the United States, the tuna fruit is readily sought by those of Latin extraction in California, New York, the southern border states and other areas of Latin populations, who are acquainted with the unique and delicate flavor of the fruit.