About Neoraimondia herzogiana (Backeb.) Buxb. & Krainz
Neoraimondia herzogiana (Backeb.) Buxb. & Krainz is a perennial, fleshy candelabra-shaped tree-like shrub. It can reach up to 15 meters in height, with a stem diameter of 15 to 20 cm (5.9 to 7.9 in). Its stem has 6 to 7 ribs. Each areole bears 3 to 5 central spines and 7 to 10 radial spines, all 1 to 2 cm (0.39 to 0.79 in) long. This species produces white or pink flowers that reach 6 cm (2.4 in) in diameter. The flowers are followed by edible fruits. The pericarp of the fruit is studded with small tufts of short, bristle-like spines. The fruits are ovoid, yellowish brown, sweet and tasty, covered with thorns. They measure 5 cm (2.0 in) in diameter, and 5 to 6 cm (2.0 to 2.4 in) in length. Neoraimondia herzogiana is distributed across the Bolivian departments of Cochabamba, Chuquisaca, Santa Cruz, and Tarija, growing at altitudes between 600 and 1900 meters.
