Παπουτσοσυτζιά, Οπουντία η ινδική συκή
Etymology of Opuntia ficus-indica: The name of the genus Opuntia derives from the ancient Greek city of "Ὀποῦς" [Opus]. Latin "ficus-indica" means "Indian fig tree", born thanks to Christopher Columbus who believed he had cast anchors in the Indies, as the species was discovered in America. The plant arrived in Europe with the Spaniards in the mid-1500s, just after the conquest of the new world.
There is one and only Opuntia species in the Cypriot habitat (but there is a second one cultivated in gardens in the Kerynia district).
Opuntia ficus-indica is a naturalized invasive species that can be encountered everywhere in Cyprus, at any altitude. It is either planted by people or multiplies on its own near other plants of its species, usually in fields where it is used as a natural fence, or inside communities. As it is a drought-tolerant plant, it needs almost no human care. Its fruits are edible. It blooms from May.
Opuntia ficus-indica's fruits are currently sold pealed and preferably cold in Cypriot fruit and supermarkets as well-priced delicacies. A local ice-cream manufacturer creates and sells ice cream from Opuntia ficus-indica fruits, which although not popular, is extremely tasty.
