Past and present role of the Indian-fig prickly-pear (Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller, Cactaceae) in the agriculture of sicily

摘要: Of prickly-pear cacti occurring in Sicily, the most widespread and economically important isOpuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller. In Sicily it has, since its introduction, played an role exploitation of marginal areas. The Sicilian experience is described with reference to historical outlines present intensive production late fruit. Information on actual uses plant products (flowers, cladodes, fruits) given.