Prickly pear

Native of Mexico, this cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) is now widespread throughout the Mediterranean basin, so as to become a full member for the collective imagination, part of the landscape of southern Italy. The fruits are very tasty and succulent, are collected between September and early November. It grows almost spontaneously and it can be found very oftwn along the edges of the stone walls. Watch out for the tiny spines that cover them.