Creeping devil
Machaerocereus gummosus
Family: Cactaceae
What it is like
A cactus. They grow 2 m high. The shoots form criss-crossing branches. They form bush-like thickets. The shoots grow upwards then turn down to the ground and root before growing upwards again. The fruit are berries 6-8 cm across.
There are 2 Machaerocereus species.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows in desert regions.
Countries/locations it is found in
Central America, Mexico, North America, USA
How it is used for food
The fruit can be eaten fresh, dried or made into unsweetened jam.
In Baja California, Mexico, these are a very important component of the diet.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
It is a slow growing species.
Its other names
Local names
Pitahaya agria