Rivenrock Gardens Cactus Blog

  A customer asked us a question about cactus today.. we thought we’d pass the Q and A to you all…

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Q.
Hello,
 Can you please tell me what the difference is between  napolitas and Nopalea Grande cactus?
 Thank you

A.
Hello Nancy,

    The Nopalea Grande cactus we sell is a cactus of the opuntia genus. The species is called Opuntia cochenillifera. It is a highly developed cactus bred through millennia for a shortage of spines, ease of preparation and unique lemony taste along with a delightful crunch.

   Nopales is the Spanish word for ‘Cactus’.  In reference to edible cactus the term is used generically to refer to edible cactus generally and specifically of the Opuntia genus (AKA Prickly Pear).

   Nopalitos is the diminutive term for nopales, it refers to nopales that have been prepared trimmed and washed and cut into strips.

   Cactus can often be found in California food markets already prepared. But once the leaf is cut open, oxidation begins it’s work at destroying the juices and meat of the leaf. It is for this reason we recommend you buy your cactus whole, and prepare it shortly before eating.

   The diminutive term ‘ito’ in Spanish is a term to refer to a smaller or younger version of the prefix. In such a  way a man might be know as Miguel (Mike), but the neighbors might refer to his son as Miguelito (Little Mikey).

   Actually, part of the fun of learning about cactus is the smack dab immersion into the Mexican culture that it gives you tantalizing glimpses into.  Cactus is held to a near mythical status in Mexico. For millennia the various species of cactus and other desert plants have given shelter, food, dyes, and textiles to the Mexican cultures.  In Mexico the Opuntia cactus is held in such high regard that it is featured prominently on the Mexican flag.

   We appreciate it for its ability to fit so well into our local environment and soils. This cactus is so well adapted to our local environs that it seems the most beneficial and least environmentally adverse plant to grow in this area.

   Thanks for the question!

John