Prickly pear, sometimes called cactus pear or Indian fig, originates in Mexico and Central America where it continues to be a popular fresh fruit. It is gaining popularity in the Mediterranean region and in the United States for its melonlike taste. This picture of the cactus in bloom with a mature fruit beside it was published by the Coca-Cola company as part of a promotional trading card series. (HFHA Coll.)

A Peruvian artist created this cactus pear harvest diorama with a plaster made from boiled mashed potato. (HFHA Coll.)

In Mexico people harvest the new cactus pads or shoots, called "nopales, " and eat them raw or cooked in a variety of ways as a vegetable. (HFHA Coll.)