This is how a prickly pear nopale (leaf) looks like when it withers. I found the name on Google.
From Google: “If you are not convinced that eating a cactus plant is the best idea, you may be surprised to learn just how much nutritional goodness it contains. The plant is very high in fiber and is a great source of natural antioxidants and healthy carotenoids. Prickly pear cactus contains a number of important minerals including potassium, calcium and phosphorus”.
I have eaten the fruit many times but never the plant. It seems worth a try and more than that.
Thanks a lot for your views, comments and fav's - always much appreciated.
Neat shot! What a trip to see it in this state. I like all the negative space here! We used to get homemade nopales chips (Similar to tortilla chips) and salsa at our local farmers market when we lived in Southern California! They were good and super good for you and yes, very high in fiber as a visitor had later found out. I’ve never had the fruit! One day I’ll have to try it but until then, I’ll take your word for it. And I’ve never seen it whither! You can see from this super shot, that it is high in fiber! Thanks for all the cool info too! Fav.
Cool shot! Lots of fiber... In Mexico and Texas you can buy it at the vegetable section. They take the spikes off and some times pre-cut them in small squares. I like the fruit, but the leaves are not our favorite. They are often a bit tart/bitter and might get a bit slimy (like okra) when cooked.
Ian