Orange Tuna
Opuntia elata
NEMBA category
English: Orange Tuna, Riverine Prickly Pear, Tree Prickly Pear
Opuntia elata, commonly known as the Orange Tuna, is a succulent shrub native to South America. It is characterised by its flat, paddle-shaped cladodes (stems) covered in spines and vibrant orange or yellow flowers that bloom in summer.
Despite its ornamental appeal, it is considered an invasive alien species in South Africa. It spreads rapidly through seed dispersal and vegetative fragments, forming dense thickets that out-compete native vegetation, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.
Its ability to thrive in poor soils and resist drought makes it difficult to control, posing a significant threat to biodiversity and land productivity. It is particularly problematic in grasslands and savannas, where it disrupts ecosystems and reduces grazing land for livestock.
Have you got a better picture?
If you don't mind us using it, please upload it by clicking the Upload button below (you must be logged in to do this)
Origins: South America (Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil)
Overall Appearance: A shrubby or tree-like cactus with flattened, jointed stems (cladodes) covered in spines that can reach heights of 3-5 meters and spread widely to form dense thickets.
Leaves: Reduced to spines.
Flowers: Orange to yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer.
Fruits: Spiny, pear-shaped fruits that are green when young and turn reddish-purple when ripe.
Seeds: Numerous, small seeds within the fruit.
Soil Type: Tolerates a wide range of soil types, including dry and rocky soils.
Aspect: Full sun.
Edible Parts: Fruits are edible, but caution is needed to remove the spines.
Provinces Affected: Widespread in South Africa, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.
Friendly alternatives:
Common name
Scientific Name
Plant type:
Plant type
Plant family:
Plant family (derivation)