C. p. n". Cnnertinn. PLATE CXX. 



Opiintia Tuna. 



PRICKLY PEAR " PANINI." 



This erect, wide-spreading plant was early introduced to these 

 Islands from Mexico. It thrives well in arid lands, and in times 

 of drought its succulent, flesh_v leaves and juicy fruit are eaten 

 by cattle. The plants, when old, become hard and woody, hav- 

 ing many stout spines. The large flowers are reddish-yellow, 

 and the obovate, truncate fruit is a purplish-red, having a thick 

 fibrous skin, which is covered with fine bristles. The edible pulp 

 is reddish-purple and contains numerous seeds. 



