(Opuntia ficus-indica, Chaco Tuna)
Indigenous to the Americas, this species of wild cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) is believed to have originated in Mexico from where it has spread throughout Northern Argentina, particularly in the region of Chaco. The cactus plant has fleshy and spiny branches (which are known as pads or nopales), and in spring, it produces beautiful orange flowers that are followed by edible fruits called prickly pears or tunas.
Distinguished by a pear-like shape, the fruit has a purple exterior with tiny spines and whitish pulp, and it is an excellent source of vitamins, phosphorus, and calcium. Found in arid and semi-arid regions, this native fruit has been a part of the indigenous Wichí, Toba, and Chorote people’s diet, and it still is harvested from the wild by locals, who use it for personal consumption or sell it at small agricultural fairs.
The local population also cultivates the fruit on small-scale farms or in home gardens. Apart from being consumed fresh or candied, Chaco prickly pear or tuna is incredibly versatile and can be used to prepare various sweets, ice cream, juices, jams, yogurts, syrups, vinegar, spirits, or wines (colonche).
Unfortunately, the preference for purchased or easy-to-grow fruits has led to a significant decline in the fruit’s consumption.
