Pitajayita
Monvillea cavendishii

Family: Montiaceae

What it is like

A cactus. It grows in soil. The upright stalks are 2-3 m high. They are 3-4 cm across. They are thorny. The flowers come out at night. They are 8 cm long. The fruit are red and pale green inside.

There are about 20 Monvillea species. They occur in tropical South America.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It will grow in dry locations. In Argentina it grows below 500 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, South America (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The ripe fruit are eaten raw.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Sokmaske

Synonyms

Cereus cavendishii Monv.; and several others