10 
THE SPINELESS CACTUS : 
YOUNG SPINELESS OPUNTIAS WITH THEIR FIRST CROP OF FRUIT 
SMITH (Ficus indica class). 
This is one of the parents of many of my spineless hybrids, imported from North Af¬ 
rica with five other varieties some fourteen years ago by Prof. Emory E. Smith. A some¬ 
what similar variety but bearing large yellow fruits of good quality was imported by 
Mr. John Rock thirty-two years ago and sparingly planted, both being-more or less thorny, 
though the thorns are very insignificant when compared with the ordinary Barbary fig. 
Both are extensively grown in Southern Europe and North Africa and the fruits commonly 
offered for sale in Paris and other markets. The Smith is a strong grower with rather 
large leaves (thalli) which as well as the fruit are generally well supplied with bristles and 
some spines. A most productive variety. Fruit nearly five inches long by two or two 
and one-fourth inches through. Skin thin, flesh crimson of most excellent quality. One 
of the best kinds to grow for fruit as it ripens early and is large and attractive by its crimson 
color but rather difficult to pick or handle unless the bristles are first removed with a whisk 
broom or by some other means. 
Cuttings: Ten pounds, SI.00; one hundred pounds, $8.00. 
