12 LUTHER BURBANK 



an incision the length of the fruit, and peeling 

 the skin back. 



The pulp thus exposed is as juicy almost as 

 the pulp of a watermelon, but much more com- 

 pact, as well as sweeter and of far better flavors. 



Pulp and skin are usually of about the same 

 color ; but the range of color is wide with the dif- 

 ferent varieties, varying from white through the 

 shades of yellow, green, orange, pink, purple, 

 crimson, and the most vivid blood-red to deep 

 purple — almost black. 



In flavor there is also wide variation. The 

 flavor is characteristic but difficult of description, 

 as it does not bear close resemblance to the flavor 

 of any familiar fruit. There is a wide range of 

 variation as to degree of sweetness and exact 

 flavor, just as there is between different varieties 

 of apples or pears. 



The cactus pear further resembles the orchard 

 fruits in that it may be eaten raw, or may be 

 cooked or variously preserved. It is an all-round 

 table fruit, and constitutes a very important 

 addition to the dietary. It is best eaten raw. 



Astounding Productivity 



Not only are the individual fruits large and 

 luscious, but they are produced in the most amaz- 

 ing profusion. 



