Paddle cactus
Opuntia schumannii
Family: Cactaceae
What it is like
A cactus. It is a shrubby plant. It forms clumps 1-2 m high. The stem segments are oblong. They are dull green and have irregular and wavy edges. They are 25 cm long. There are 2-10 spines in a group. They are unequal and twisted. The are spreading and 4.5 cm long. The flowers are yellow, orange or red. They are 6 cm long. The fruit are oval and dark purple. They are fleshy and 5 cm long.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows along shores and in openareas.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Asia, Colombia (country/location of origin), Indonesia, SE Asia, South Africa, South America, Southern Africa, Venezuela (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The fruit are used as food colouring.
Edible parts
Fruit - food colouring, fruit
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seeds or cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Kaktus dayung