The evaluation of fifteen spineless prickly pear cultivars (Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill.) for fresh fruit production in the Pretoria region

Abstract

Fifteen spineless prickly pear cultivars (Opuntia ficus-indica) were evaluated for three successive seasons at the University of Pretoria Research Farm. Yields were recorded and external and internal fruit quality factors were identified and considered. Following this investigation, minimum standards were suggested and the cultivars under review were compared. The cultivars Morado, Algerian, Fusicaulis van Heerden, Fresno, Mexican and Nudosa met all or most of the standards set. It is concluded that for fresh fruit production these cultivars are best suited for planting in the Pretoria region and in areas with similar climatic conditions.