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, fleshy leaves and juicy fruit are eaten by cattle. The plants, when old, become hard and woody, having 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.