About Pereskia aculeata Mill.
Like other species in the genus Pereskia, Pereskia aculeata Mill. is an unusual cactus that develops spiny, non-succulent stems and large leaves. It grows as a scrambling vine that reaches 10 m (33 ft) tall when climbing in trees, with stems measuring 2–3 cm (0.79–1.18 in) thick. Younger stems produce hooked thorns, while older stems have clusters of woody spines. Its leaves are 4–11 cm (1.6–4.3 in) long and 1.5–4 cm (0.59–1.57 in) broad; they are simple, have smooth entire margins, and drop during the dry season. The flowers are strongly scented, range in color from white and cream to pinkish, measure 2.5–5 cm (0.98–1.97 in) across, grow in large numbers, and are borne in panicles. The fruit is a rounded berry, ranging in color from translucent white to light yellow, orange, or red, and is 1.5–2 cm (0.59–0.79 in) in diameter. The leaves of this plant are edible, and contain 20 to 30 percent protein by dry leaf mass. The fruits are also edible, and contain numerous small seeds. In appearance, it is somewhat similar to the gooseberry, and has an excellent flavor.
